ajcsportstalk

By Ezekiel

August 22, 2006 09:27 PM | Link to this

I’m excited about this deal yet a little apprehensive. I like our trio of receivers but I need to see more out of Norwood. Now all I need to hear is that we picked up Jackson or Buckner at NT.

By Kirkwood

August 22, 2006 09:28 PM | Link to this

I think we are headed for the super bowl. That’s just what we needed another deep threat option! Go Falcons!

By Dwight Green

August 22, 2006 09:31 PM | Link to this

Are you kidding me! This is huge! Duckett has been very consistent at getting in the endzone but I think our third round draft pick can pick up the slack when our probowler needs a rest. Lelie is a perfect fit for our offense. Happy birthday Mike!!!!!!!!

By Moker

August 22, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

This deal shows that the Falcons are the one professional sports team in Atlanta that is trying to win a Championship as soon as possible. Thank you Arthur Blank ! Go Falcons !

By Stiloman

August 22, 2006 09:33 PM | Link to this

I hope the Falcons have enough depth at RB.I like the sound of Lelie’s upside but it reminds me way too much of the talent/attitude situation we took on with Peerless Price. We all know what happened there.

I really wish we would have kept Duckett through the season, developed our young recivers and determined what we really have in Norwood.

It would have given us more flexability going in to next year, now we know we have a hole at RB to fill.

Portis must be hurt worse than we were led to believe, Good Luck TJ!

By drunk college kid

August 22, 2006 09:38 PM | Link to this

Wow! I’m so excited, I wish I could hit TJ DUCKETT with a beer bottle and knock his teeth out. Overrated Underachiever.

By Jason

August 22, 2006 09:39 PM | Link to this

hmmm…the jury is still out. I would have liked it better if he was traded to an AFC team. We dont want to make another NFC team better.

By Sean

August 22, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

Great Move! If you’re worried about Norwood, go back and watch him against SEC teams last year. Norwood is more suited for our offense. He will find the holes. Goodbye DVD and welcome DVN! And a big welcome to Mike’s new target!

By mo

August 22, 2006 09:42 PM | Link to this

I sure wish Duckett well. I think he will be a good bruiser back, once he gets enough snaps.

However, this deal makes sense for Atlanta. It fills a huge gap on offense. Now, y’all- holla at me about that D-line…

By Boy

August 22, 2006 09:43 PM | Link to this

Duckett will be missed. I think the rest of the preseason games will help Norwood out to be better than Duckett. Norwood fits our offense, as now for Lelie, he will have to get ready for Vick, he must show that he is willing to be a team player and jell with the young receivers. Good bye Pathon, hello Grady Jackson!!!

By NumbaOneFan

August 22, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

Drunk College Kid… you are a punk and I wish you would hit TJ in the mouth with a beer bottle, I am sure you woulda gotten your punk Asse beat to a pulp. What did the man do to you personally to cause such hate… did he nail your sister or mom? pr maybe he nailed you while you were passed out drunk… no wait, my bad…. I think you volunteered to get nailed….Jeez the nerve of you. Hell I would kick your asse myself. Get off this blog

By Gary

August 22, 2006 09:45 PM | Link to this

Do forget we play the redskins this year and he know the offense. Good luck for us

By Duane

August 22, 2006 09:46 PM | Link to this

Let’s see if I understand correctly…we send a first round pick (having a great training camp)to the Redskins who send a 3rd or 4th round pick to Denver and we end up with an unhappy receiver in the last year of his contract who hasn’t spent a day in training camp yet. Only the Falcons could do something so stupid. Wait a minute, the Hawks are that stupid also (Harrington deal)

By Ced

August 22, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

This is a good move! we needed another receiver.. But I don’t like the fact that an unproven back will be our plan B for Dunn… And that we don’t have a true fullback.. there should definitely be some consideration given to getting rid of Griffin

By billy g

August 22, 2006 09:48 PM | Link to this

It was obvious that Duckett did not fit into Mora’s plans. Trading him was the smart thing to do and probably the best thing for TJ. TJ is a class act and will open a lot of eyes as a Redskin….I wish him well.

As far as the compensation for TJ, I am not so optimistic. Lelie has a history of frequent injuries and a less than courageous attitude on the field. He is a deep threat guy, much in the mold of Price. Hopefully, he will give his all in his “contract year.” In my opinion, Lelie is not enough compensation for TJ but, for the time being, I’ll try to keep the faith.

By billy g

August 22, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

We were offered a third round pick during this past draft by the Steelers. Didn’t we just trade Duckett for Lelie, who was traded to Washington for a third round pick?

By johnmrog

August 22, 2006 09:50 PM | Link to this

Let’s see now… we trade away a 1st round pick for the worthless Peerless Price. Then we use two MORE 1st round picks for the totally non-productive Michael Jenkins and Roddy White. And then we trade away a former 1st-round pick (Duckett) for a disgruntled, whining non-productive wide receiver.

I say we continue to trade players for and draft even MORE wide receivers and continue to totally ignore the offensive and defensive lines!!! The Falcons will be the first team in the history of the NFL to win with an ALL WIDE RECEIVER LINEUP!!!! Wouldn’t that be, like, totally awesome!!!!

By Mark

August 22, 2006 09:51 PM | Link to this

Great move! As long as we can get Lelie’s head straightened out this will be $$$. We get Lelie instead of, say, McCariens. That’s like a maserati versus a civic.

By Salty Dawg

August 22, 2006 09:54 PM | Link to this

We are luck McKay didn’t get the commissioner’s job. His deals feel pretty good so far. Lelie can spread out a defense and will compliment Jenkins and White. I just wonder if we shouldn’t have dealt an aging Dunn instead of Duckett?

By Dexterdawg

August 22, 2006 09:55 PM | Link to this

drunk college kid, I can see you hitting TJ in the head with a bottle,and him making you eat it while he is bouncing your little head off the bleachers

By Salty Dawg

August 22, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

Good deal, but I wonder if we shouldn’t have traded an aging Dunn instead?

By Love 'em & Leave 'em

August 22, 2006 09:57 PM | Link to this

I thought that Ashley (strangely he shares the name with my nanny) wanted to be a “number one” guy.

Either you’re a running team or a passing team. We seem to be a running team. Yet we have three WR who are former #1 picks.

Does anybody feel that we have even one #1 guy at the WR position? And while we have three guys who were number one picks on the outside (or in the slot) we have zero guys along the OL who were number one guys.

“Cart, turn around and meet the horse” It’s not a super bowl team.

Can you guys imagine Duckett running against OUR defense. I’d better pad the room now.

By obie

August 22, 2006 09:58 PM | Link to this

If Dunn get’s hurt this season the trade will go down as a disaster. Duckett provided a great change of pace when replacing Dunn. I hope it works since the Falcons did need someone to replace Brian.

By Demarc from Doug

August 22, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

Last chance to get on the bandwagon you fake falcon fans and falcon haters, we’ll see what you have to say when the falcons are back in the playoffs!!! Win or lose “FALCON FAN FOREVER”!!!!

By Rell

August 22, 2006 10:06 PM | Link to this

Man if Dunn goes down the season is lost and ill be looking for someone to lose their job behind this trade. I cant believe we traded Duckett, a proven backup. Vick’s no gonna be able to carry this team with just his arm. Im a real fan thats been here so I know our luck…. Im mad about this trade. 100 bucks says Duckett shows out against us on Dec 3rd.

By This gets old

August 22, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

If you’re in the playoffs hunt, late in the season, do you want an extra, tough RB or another WR?

We’re not going to spend to resign Lelie which means that we’ll need yet another WR in the draft.

Tough, physical football wins now in the NFL. Moss and Owens aren’t “charater” guys but Lelie is? We give the “not quite a backup” role to a guy that our coach said didn’t show up in a preseason game!

We have an extra pick next season. Why didn’t we get somebody along one or both lines for TJ? He’s gonna run wild behind a normal sized line in an offense that is well coached.

By matt r

August 22, 2006 10:12 PM | Link to this

At first I didn’t like the notion of trading a potential 1,000 yard rusher for a third receiver, but Lelie can be the number one guy on our team, number two at the least. Unfortunately Vick has a couple weeks to develop any sort of chemistry with him. I find it super ironic that in the 2002 draft everyone on ESPN, in Atlanta, and in my house thought we were about to take Lelie with the 18th pick. They threw us for a loop and took Duckett after we had just signed Dunn. Looks like we are getting who thought was coming, just four years later.

I am a bit surprised that they went for Lelie since he has been grumbling about being a number one receiver, and the Blank regime has been all about avoiding the selfish guys. But, I guess if we avoided every player who’s ever grumbled at all, we wouldn’t have but a few players on our roster.

By drmondo

August 22, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

I’m less concerned about a #3 WR who may get thrown to 5-10 times a game than I am about a DT who can shut down the run and will be involved in half the plays of the game. I agree ATL had to find a temporary replacement for Finn but was it worth Duckett? If ATL can’t shut down the other team’s running game than how much does a #3 WR matter?

By Adam

August 22, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

For all you fans that are so high on Lelie, have you noticed that he’s not even in camp and when he does show up, he rarely “shows up”?

Stupid trade. McKay thinks this team has SB chances when the O line stinks and the D line needs a run stopper in the middle.

Oh well, I’ve been a Falcons fan since the 60’s and this is nothing new.

By D Dunk

August 22, 2006 10:13 PM | Link to this

This team is something else. Michael Vick is a great athlete but I don’t think he’s a quaterback. Now the team trades one of their most productive players for a wide receiver who may not get the ball much because of a questionable line and below average quaterback. Not to mention an offensive line that has questionmarks and an offense that was Offensive last year. Typical Facons trading Duckett.

By motleygunner

August 22, 2006 10:18 PM | Link to this

Here is a concept… why don’t you let Rich McKay do his job, he is probably the best in the business. You are all a bunch of clueless honks, and that is why you are posting on this site and he is running the Falcons. I will take my chances with McKay’s choices over any of you hacks.

By charles

August 22, 2006 10:21 PM | Link to this

thanks to tj-we all know injuries hampered your productivity as for lelie-he seems like a less talented version of t.o.

By ILL-logical

August 22, 2006 10:22 PM | Link to this

Short term the trade is a win-win: TJ gets away from a system that would not work with/for him;the Falcons get a deep threat who will be starting by game 3 of the regular season(Roddy is a *) and make Alge even more of a threat. Now that Grady Jackson’s “heart murmur” has cleared up, the D will be improved against the run by game 3 of the regular season. Got to go 11-5 baby!

By Big "D"

August 22, 2006 10:25 PM | Link to this

I’m sick and tired of everybody saying “if” Dunn goes down, this is football s..t happens. What if Peyton Manning or S.Alexander goes down? Their teams would hurt too, all you old mothers and 3rd string couch players shut up and stop worrying!!!

By Rutuger

August 22, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

After an eight year drought, we finally have someone who could plausibly be considered a no. 1 receiver…

… and it doesn’t matter b/c stubborn Mora refuses to let him play above two far inferior players.

Way to look out for the team’s best interests there, Jimmy!

By SCDAWG

August 22, 2006 10:28 PM | Link to this

If he did’nt want to be #3 in Denver, why would he be # 3 in the ATL? This kid has a lot of upside, I just hope he dosn’T turn the Falcon’s upside down!

By Marty Foreman

August 22, 2006 10:38 PM | Link to this

Some Falcon fans are upset about this but, the Falcons could get nothing in return for him if they waited until next year! Also, that’s why we have great G.M.s and head coaches- to not only have talent and great plays on the field but to also know what your guys (including RB rookies)are capable of doing! So a team can fill their needs to the very best of their experienced and NFL-wise abilities.

By Brian

August 22, 2006 10:39 PM | Link to this

This is a good trade. The Falcons have needed WR since the 2002 draft when Ashley Lelie was drafted #15 overall by denver — then 28th overall was duckett. At the time they told us “best athelete available”.. ok, so now basically you just traded #28 money for #14 money, that’s a good trade AND if Dunn stays healthy, you’ve upgraded the offense.

By Brian

August 22, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

This is a good trade. The Falcons have needed WR since the 2002 draft when Ashley Lelie was drafted #15 overall by denver — then 28th overall was duckett. At the time they told us “best athelete available”.. ok, so now basically you just traded #28 money for #14 money, that’s a good trade AND if Dunn stays healthy, you’ve upgraded the offense.

By El Guapo

August 22, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

* THE RSS FEED FOR THIS BLOG IS NOT WORKING. CLICK ON THE “RSS FEED FOR THIS BLOG” LINK ON THE LEFT. THE MOST RECENT POST SHOWN IS FROM SEPTEMBER 2005. PLEASE FIX THIS. THANKS. *

By csu2010

August 22, 2006 10:41 PM | Link to this

I hate to see Duckett go, but as long as the Falcons win games and make a playoff appearance this season, I can get over him leaving. Let’s all hope Leile can contribute to the team.

By JJMB

August 22, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

So long, waste of a first round pick, stumble bum!

By JB

August 22, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

I WISH WE WOULD HAVE GOTTEN JERRY PORTER. JURY IS STILL OUT ON LELIE. HIS NUMBERS REMIND ME OF PEERLESS.NOW LETS GET THE DT

By Xfactor

August 22, 2006 10:45 PM | Link to this

All I got to say is if you are under contract and getting paid the money these guys get - and you refuse to show up for work - then you are a classless, heartless loser who’s word means nothing. And that is not the kind of person I would want on my team. I think it is a major mistake bringing a loser like Leslie to the Falcons. We need more guys like Duckett who knows how to be a team player - instead of a guy who only thinks of himself.

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 10:47 PM | Link to this

Outstanding!! Lelie comes to the Falcons 3 years late. We should’ve drafted him #18. I would like to thank TJ for being a class act throughout his tenure with the team. Good luck, and remember to hit the hole hard. When the down marker has a 3 or 4 on it, that means NO TIPPY TOES!!!!! Take it east and see ya during the season. Now let’s embrace the newest Falcon. You guys must be reading some drunk reporters column. No one in the league can say he has character issues. Get the facts straight. Denver brass mad him some verbal agreements concerning his contract situation and apparently lied to him and signed Javon Walker to provide leverage against his contract negotiations. For his part he felt that he could no longer represent an organization that doesn’t have the players best interest at heart. I admire his conviction. He was willing to sit out the entire year. Enough of that. Let’s welcome the newest Falcon. This means that at any given time Vick, Dunn (Norwood), Crumpler, White, Jenkins, and Lelie could be on the field at the same time. I kinda like our chances. The young fellas will see alot more single coverages and the middle will open up for Crump. Any defensive coordinator who single covers Lelie will not be employed for long. If they do, the score board will light up. I to be greedy, but, Mr. Blank, I have one last request. Sign Jackson or Buckner tomorrow. Thanks…

By tech guy

August 22, 2006 10:51 PM | Link to this

It’s a good trade. Not a perfect trade, but they don’t exist in the NFL anymore. A third receiver affects the game way more than a back-up running back. If we didn’t have Norwood it never happens. Essentially, there is minimal risk here. I’d say that both players haven’t ever lived up to their potential, but Lelie will make the team better. Still need a stout DT, and I’d be stunned if we didn’t get one before the Carolina game.

By Skydawg

August 22, 2006 10:52 PM | Link to this

Don’t forget that Griffith can play some RB as well if needed. The one that should really be happy is Cobb. He might have just won a roster spot by default. I just hope Lelie drops the “tude” that he’s had with Denver the past year. Maybe a change of scenery will do him good.

By James

August 22, 2006 10:56 PM | Link to this

In order for the west coast offense to work, you need a deep threat. But you also need a QB who can hit the deep receiver. How many times last year did Vick go deep? And, how deep into the season will it take for Vick to have confidence in throwing to Lelie?

By Spunkypeach

August 22, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

This is a very bad decision. I am very disappointed in the Falcons for trading Duckett. Duckett is 10 times the half back Dunn could ever dream to be.

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 10:57 PM | Link to this

Xfactor, I couldn’t let this one go. Please don’t comment until you’ve done adequate research. Let’s not let $$$$ that athletes make cloud your thought processes. If your boss promoted or hired someone with the idea of giving them your job or using that person as leverage in your next performance appraisal, you wouldn’t like it one bit. By signing Walker, that’s effectively what they did. They said, take that. He said okay, I’m out. By the way, he’s was losing a significant amount of money to make his point. He put his money where his mouth was, so to speak. I admire it. I’d heard nothing but positive things about him since college. So lets leave contract squabbles to the parties involved and just enjoy the entertainment the players provide. Leave the jealously of their high pay for playing a game out of it…….

By Stewart

August 22, 2006 10:58 PM | Link to this

Please, everyone stop with all the b***. Dunn is the most underrated back in the league. The more he touches the ball, the better he is. Norwood, who? Warrick Dunn will have 1,800 yards this year and carry the Birds to the division title. He’s a bad man.

By Boo Boo

August 22, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

Did anybody but me hear McKay say during the game vs. Green Bay that Duckett wasn’t going anywhere? Now they say that no receiver will bump Jenkins and White. Yea right. Lelie is putting up $14k a day to be a number 1 receiver so why would he come here to be number 3. Roddy and Mike you better watch your back!

sooooo we get rid of our DVD to get a target that Vick will probably never throw to as long as he has Crump? So what happens next year when Finn is back? Now we’re running the risk of no longer being the number 1 rushing team in the league to be a mediocre passing one. How dumb is that?!

By Skydawg

August 22, 2006 10:59 PM | Link to this

Only concern I have after reflecting on it for a few minutes. How is Lelie going to react to being a “3rd receiver”? Especially in a contract year.

By al b sure

August 22, 2006 11:04 PM | Link to this

Boo Boo,

When McKay said that, he was just putting that notion out there to get teams to increase their offers for Duckett…that’s just a negotiating ploy.

No team in the NFL is about to make Lelie a #1 and he knows that. At least with ATL he will have a chance to play, and Roddy has shown he is injury prone. So if he got hurt, do you want Pathon or Jennings lining up with the first team? I thought not.

Lelie only has one year on his contract, as did Duckett. Lelie will be gone after this season.

By Boots

August 22, 2006 11:05 PM | Link to this

Unless Lelie runs a 3.5 forty, he won’t have time to get down field before Vick starts to juke and jive his way to great rushing yards, but mediocre passing stats.

By Ain't it odd

August 22, 2006 11:06 PM | Link to this

Guys, Duckett scored 31 TD’s here. That doesn’t mean anything to anybody?? Lelie hasn’t just missed camp he’s missed most OTA’s.

By the way the West Coast offense doesn’t depend upon the deep throws. If it did nobody would be talking about Vick’s accuracy. He throws a great deep ball, it’s just nobody who can get deep on the roster and that’s going to include Lelie.

By al b sure

August 22, 2006 11:07 PM | Link to this

Skydawg,

According to other news reports, Lelie had 2 options: Be a #3 on another team or sit out the season. Which do you think is worse during a contract year? Denver had him by the “you know what”.

By Terry J. Lee

August 22, 2006 11:10 PM | Link to this

I think that this is a wonderful trade. T. J. Duckett was a very inconsistent runner sometimes he ran hard aand at times he did’nt. He was suppose to be a punishing back like Mike Alstott for Tampa Bay, but Duckett was always trying to run like Warrick Dunn. Good Bye!

By Dave

August 22, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

It’s not going to matter. 1- The O-line can’t block for Vick long enough for him to get the ball to anyone with any consistency. 2- When he gets time, Vick is still the scattershot thrower he was in college. 3- It’s all a moot point when you can’t stop the run.

By al b sure

August 22, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

@Ain’t it odd

Lelie is in shape, he just needs a couple of weeks to get in football shape and get some timing with Vick. The Falcons will use him to stretch the field. I think your generalization of the WCO is off a bit. Denver runs a very similar offense as the Falcons.

@Boots, you are an idiot.

By Birddog

August 22, 2006 11:12 PM | Link to this

TJ is in shape and primed for one of his best seasons and we have a lot of needs. We could have gotten more than a cry baby, t.o. wannabe that turns his back on his teammates.

By Bubba

August 22, 2006 11:13 PM | Link to this

Good point BOO BOO. Mckay looked right in the camera and said Duckett wasn’t going anywhere. Was adamant about it. Guess that makes him a liar. Why couldn’t he just say “no comment”. Nice character Rich.

By Boots

August 22, 2006 11:14 PM | Link to this

Who’s talking about Vick’s passing accuracy. My God, his average yardage per completion is 6 yards. And, his passer rating is 25th in the league.

By Jennifer

August 22, 2006 11:15 PM | Link to this

I love Warrick Dunn, truly. He is the absolute best player the Falcons have had in decades. He will give us a couple more great years and then retire at the top. Class A player and Class A person. Don’t forget that being a Class A player has allowed him to be the Class A person he always wanted to be (ie, charities).

By Mike

August 22, 2006 11:19 PM | Link to this

What is the matter with this organization?? It is hard enough to stomach watching Gregg Knapp run our offence into the ground and keep his job because he is Mora’s buddy. Trading our best back, and yes he is the better back, is nothing short of negligent. To make it worse were trading him for a basket case who wont even show up for camp. At leat T.O. can say he is a number one reciever. WAY TO GO MCKAY, perhaps if you hurry you can trade Vick for someone’s third string holdout QB. TJ, I hope you run for 2000 yards this year good luck. Falcons, we deserve to lose.

By marc

August 22, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

I think it is a good move. i have been screaming about our receiveing core all offseason. i think it forces the wr to step up and guarantees good wr play. i think it helps us come from behind if needed. And…if tj can be productive with his style, Norwood can too- but Please stay healthy Warrick! Please?

By Spunkypeach

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

Jennifer- Being a Class A Chairty person does not make Warrick Dunn a Class A player. He’s a schmuck. And he should have been traded instead of “The Mack Truck” TJ.

By Morris

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

So TJ is gone, and we have a new offensive weapon for vick, as a 3WR if he can click with lelie during the season, however thaat leaves two holes left to fill, a run stuffer DT and a medioum quality back up for dunn (we could sign duce once he is waive by the steelers) and with noorwood and our couple of FB whe can still be the No.1 running offense in the NFL, remember Duckett reduced his average last season. now lets hope the OL can handle the pressure from the DL, in order for vick to find in post or slant patterns to its receivers.

By Red and Black

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

I like the trade but wonder why Jenkins is our #1 receiver. This guy has had time to prove himself yet he would not make the practice squad on any other NFL team today. Time to face facts that Jenkins was a mistake and should be moved to the #3 and out when Finneran comes back next year. Make Lelie the #1 and hope that Vick can get him the ball downfield.

Duckett could have been much better here had the coaching staff given him more opportunities. He will do well in Washington.

By Doomed

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

This is a bad deal!!!!!!! When did the Atlanta Falcons become a pass oriented team? The number one rushing team in the league trades there #2 running back for a number #3 wide reciever what is the sense in that? Not to mention the starting QB only completes 55% of his passes. Mark 12/3 on your calendar, TJ Duckett will rush for 125 yards (Assuming Portis is still out) and score two touchdowns (whether Portis is out or not). Don’t belive me, just think about Boris Diaw.

By MB

August 22, 2006 11:23 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand how people can say we need Duckett. He was terrible last season, and has never been great. Our league best rushing attack is not because of him, it’s because of Dunn. Norwood will learn and will be a good backup and fit for our rushing style. Plus we have more than enough fullbacks who can punch the ball into the endzone if need be. People seem to forget how many times Duckett got the ball last year and went no where. It was so frustrating. He doesn’t fit our scheme. I wish him well, but am glad we got rid of him. It’s a risk taking Lelie, but if his heads on straight, this could end up being a steal.

By mountain_jim

August 22, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

Best receiver we have had in 5 years - watch and see:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fan4k5Zj8

By BAD NEWS!

August 22, 2006 11:29 PM | Link to this

Too many ‘what ifs” here for the Falcons. Still too many young and unproven wide outs for a Vick-Type-Offensive scheme as well as questionable offensive and defensive lines to compete in an already strong NFC South Division. The only beneficiary of this trade is Duckett, and if healthy, will have a breakout year behind a strong/experienced Skin’s offensive line and a veteran coach in Joe Gibbs who is always committed to big and strong running backs to exeute his run offense. Like John Riggins 25 years ago, Dunkett fell into the perfect situation to accumulate 1,500+ yards this season. Just watch….Falcons will be haunted by this unbalanced trade and miss the playoffs again while Dunkett leds the Skins to the playoffs and make his 1st Pro Bowl this season, thanks in part to the Falcon’s front office. Boooooo!

Bad news!

By MB

August 22, 2006 11:30 PM | Link to this

I wish people would stop saying Duckett is a good #2 back. When has he ever proven he can be effective for a whole game? He would put us in 3rd down and 6, 3rd down and 8 way too much. He’s not effective enough. Sure, he’s a good change of pace, but that’s it. Washington will see. He can’t carry a whole team for a whole game. I’d rather have Justin Griffeth than Duckett….wait a minute, we do have that option now!

By cptevil

August 22, 2006 11:31 PM | Link to this

Did Rick Mckay and Mark Richt go bowling together last night, get drunk, and both decide to ruin their seasons?

By Spunkypeach

August 22, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

LMAO @ cptevil

By Stewart

August 22, 2006 11:36 PM | Link to this

Spunkypeach, everytime you type something you are proving that your IQ is about 10 points higher than a bowling shoe. Please, never, ever, watch another Falcons game again.

Dunn will rush for 1,800 now that he is the only back on the team. He’s a bad man.

If the Falcons can stop other teams from running the football, we will win the division.

By Jennifer

August 22, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

Peachyshit or whatever, schmuck? Who are you kidding? Lookit, Duckett will do fine now that he is in the proper set up. He has talent and works hard. But he was not suited to the Falcons. Dunn, however, is 100% perfect. And he’s followed closely by the fabulous Griff. Hopefully Norwood can prove his worth. But Duckett over Dunn on this team was a complete null. Where do you get off just because you WANT the Falcons to have an old school yard a dust back? Sorry, not the right type of back. And schmuck is a personality word. Dunn is no schmuck. Not as a person as we all know. And does the phrase “career season” mean anything to you? Sound smuckish? Or how about how he’s gotten better EVERY SEASON he’s been here? And Duckett has not (not because he’s not talented but because he wasn’t a good fit)..

Look, you like Duckett. So follow his career and cheer him on no matter where he is. Good on you to do that. Bad on you to insist he should stay where he doesn’t fit.

Dunn is the best Falcon in decades.

By Amy

August 22, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this

Stewart-Your bowling shoe comment is lame, as are your opinions. Apparently we are watching different Falcons games. Dunn is still a schmuck.

By eddie

August 22, 2006 11:41 PM | Link to this

Baaaaad trade. Duckett is a bonafide runner who gave ATL depth at RB, they now have none. Top that off with getting nothing more than Lelie who didn’t even want to show up and compete for the no. 1 or 2 spot. Who really thinks Lelie will be satisfied playing for ATL when he was playing for a top team like Denver. Looks like Den. and Wash. pulled one over on the Falcons.

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 11:44 PM | Link to this

Before anyone else makes anymore uninformed comments. Please scroll up and click on link supplied by mountin jim. The video is undisputable. We haven’t seen a receiver make these plays since Rison. On several plays he has to wait for the ball. Oh, what could’ve been in Philly that cold winter night…. Lelie will open up the offense for everyone. Warrick Dunn is CLASS personified on or off the field. Anyone who says different needs to check themselves……

By Jennifer

August 22, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Amy, peach, schmuck means “jerk”, literally. Do you really think that Dunn is a jerk, on the field (because we know he’s not off)?

By bruce

August 22, 2006 11:45 PM | Link to this

Listen up! Duckett probably will not even last in Washington. As soon as Portis shows he is healthy (which will be no later than week 2), Duckett becomes just another change of pace back. Perhaps Washington will look to use him as trade bait later on. Meanwhile, I certainly hope the Falcon front office has gotten assurances from the Agent for Lelie that he is in shape and anxious to play in Atlanta. If he continues to hold out this trade will most certainly be a bust.

By Shaun T.

August 22, 2006 11:46 PM | Link to this

Bad News, you may be as dumb as they come. How will T.J. Duckett rush for 1500 yards when he will eventually be backing up Clinton Portis. How much would you like to wager that he doesn’t make the Pro Bowl?

By Yo Mama

August 22, 2006 11:50 PM | Link to this

Jennifer, sweetheart, do you live in a house that Warrick Dunn bought for you?? Is that why you are so defensive?

By baller

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

Duckett tip-toed up to the line. He very seldom ran hard like a back his size should have. We should have traded him for some offensive linemen.

By Alex

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

What has Ashley proven so far in the NFL. Nothing…occasional flashes of greatness at best. T.J. Duckett is a proven NFL RB…granted, he slumped a lot the last few games of last season, not being able to gain yardage on 3 and 1 or 4 and 1 situations…but we usually see him gain positive yardage and eat up defenses with his running style straight up the middle.

Ashley is not a character guy, I’m not going to say he’s a T.O or a Randy Moss…but what did his most recent antics in Denver show to the Falcons, so that they would want to gamble on this trade? He’s a malcontent who whines and wants “the ball” and if he doesn’t get it 10 times a game throws a fit. Is he a good blocking WR like Brian Finneran is? Hell no, is he a third down possesion receiver? He hasn’t show that he is so far. The falcons panicked and rushed to get a WR who is shady and has been subpar so far in his NFL career.

By GetaGrip

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

Has anyone besides me and mountain jim seen this guys work?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fan4k5Zj8

By True Fan

August 22, 2006 11:51 PM | Link to this

What the H### is wrong with some of the people on this blog!? All of a sudden TJ Duckett is the best back we had? Even better than Dunn!? While some of you are waxing poetic about Duckett let me remind you about 3rd and inches lost a yard, 3rd and 1 no gain, 4th and 1 lost a yard, 2nd and goal no gain, 3rd and goal lost 1 yard and on and on. I’ll miss Duckett too, but please cut the freaking Crap! TJ would have never worked in our system. Not that he’s not a good back, just not for our team. Dunn is 10xs the back TJ is. Good grief Charlie Brown! Yall act like the sports world just ended!

By Getagrip

August 22, 2006 11:56 PM | Link to this

Alex, Educate yourself, PLEASE!!! or Just be quiet… Yo Mama, Your CLASSLESS… Knock him out Jennifer… Thanks, DUNN fans

By MB

August 22, 2006 11:58 PM | Link to this

True Fan…thank you! Do we forget how Duckett ran last year!? This wasn’t just a slump over the last few games! Come on people, he only had 308 yards over 16 games! Why are people trying to make him out to be the league MVP or something! Are we saying that Norwood cannot match that output in mop up work and spelling Dunn for rests? If he can get 300 yards, he’ll match what Duckett did last year. I guarantee he will, plus we’ll have a good #3 receiver to boot! Let’s stop this TJ Duckett love fest please! Play back some games from last year, and you’ll be reminded.

By tom

August 23, 2006 12:02 AM | Link to this

Whoa….Gregg knapp only used TJ on 3rd and short situations. Whenever he ran on the field everyone in the stadium knew he was getting the ball. Its not hard to stop any back when you put 9 guys in the box. TJ never had a chance with Knapp calling the plays. When my 12 year old daughter says “here comes TJ, hes gonna get the ball”, there is a problem.

By Jennifer

August 23, 2006 12:07 AM | Link to this

Yo Mama/Peach/Amy, sigh

alright…I’ll address the whole insult comment about the house.

No. Dunn has not bought me a house. In fact, I currently own two homes, all on my one. One in Gwinnett, one in Candler Park. I am trying to sell the one in Gwinnett, so it’s not like I’m some rich girl who can afford a house in the stick and one in the city.

And, there are a few people, Mountain Jim included, who know me from way back. They know that I started following Dunn because he’s from where I’m from, because we’re the same age, because he lost his own mama, because he made a point to help out other, and most of all, because of all that other crap, he made a point to be the best at what he does. Hes a GREAT back. There is no one who can say otherwise.

Now, when it comes to the Falcons. I only became a Falcons fan because they took Dunn. So, if you’re a Duckett fan then I understand why you’d be miffed that the traded him. However, you’re thinking that traded means fired. No, that would be incorrect thinking. It was also best in Duckett’s interest to be traded. He was warming the bench and getting booed over here and he didn’t really deserve that. He deserved to be on a team that needed a bruiser.

OK, so YM/Peahc/Amy, get over yourself. You. Are. Wrong.

End of story as far as I am concerned.

Next.

By SpunkyPeach

August 23, 2006 12:13 AM | Link to this

I’m not sure who Yo Mama is, but whatever. Jennifer, I agree with you that Dunn is a stand up guy, he is. But that does not make him a good RB. It just doesnt. So regardless of who I am a fan of, I still think this trade is a bad decision. So, as far as I am concerned, this is over.

By tom

August 23, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

Does anyone know where Gregg Knapp lives??…..I’ll bring the eggs if you’ll bring the toilet paper.

By Alec

August 23, 2006 12:15 AM | Link to this

I think of it like this….

I rather have Norwood behind Dunn and either Ashly Lelie, Michael Jenkins, or Roddy White as the third WR.

Then Duckket behind Dunn and Adam Jennings as the third reciever.

By maya lucia

August 23, 2006 12:16 AM | Link to this

ok den…

what was that last comment about?

now’s the time for norwood to step up and be the baller that he is…..

and we have 3 recievers now who can play…..who care’s who’s 1,2, or 3…….just score 6.

vick must show he can throw & run & lead the team…..

none of it matters without a strong line….

we’ll talk about defense another time….

GOOD TRADE!

By BuzzKill

August 23, 2006 12:17 AM | Link to this

I agree with the skeptics. We’re sending a motivated 1st rounder who knows our offense and was good insurance for Warrick Dunn, with a guy who is disgruntled and hasn’t spent 1 day in camp this season. Also, Lelie is talented but inconsistent and he was holding out because he was #3 in Denver, which is what he is in ATL as well. This move has the old Falcons written all over it, but hopefully McKay and Mora did their due diligence on Lelie.

By Tim

August 23, 2006 12:22 AM | Link to this

Great trade for everyone concerned.

The Broncos get a draft pick for a disgruntled Lelie, the Redskins get another power back/insurance for Porter, and the Falcons get a speedy #1 WR.

Lelie is going to light it up. The means that Roddy White needs to step it up or else he’s going to find himself riding the pine.

Think about it, we have 3 sub 4.4/40 receivers with great size. What’s not to like?

By Jennifer

August 23, 2006 12:30 AM | Link to this

Peach,

Ok, my apologies, you’re not YM. But, my point. Dunn and Duckett are both good backs. Dunn is better overall by experience and better for the Falcons by design. Duckett will be good for another team and I sincerely wish him well. He deserves to be top dog somewhere.

But he was not for here. And I can’t be convinced otherwise. And Dunn is not a schmuck…unless you define it as a nice guy who can really zig zag around defenses.

I’m not arguing this point any further. Dunn was a better fit than Duckett. Dunn is the best Falcon in decades.

By wclark

August 23, 2006 12:45 AM | Link to this

Actually I really don’t know about this trade. TJ was a sure TD and he gave a good balance to the offense. On the other hand Norwood shows balance, durability, and quickness. Ashley coming to the table actually needs to come to the table and make a difference to the offense. He needs to make an impact and lead as an example as he did in Denver. We need a big WR in Atlanta haven’t had one since the little but, awesome Mathis…. Hope everything turns out good for the Falcons…

By Wedgie Evans

August 23, 2006 12:48 AM | Link to this

Duckett didn’t fit this system, so it’s not surprising that he was traded — although he’s probably going to excel in Joe Gibbs’ run offense which emphasizes the power running game (a direct contrast from the pansy a* scheme we run here). Looking back, the Falcons should have probably drafted Lelie or Javon Walker in 2002 instead of Duckett based on need anyway.

But once again the Falcons’ management screws it up. Apparently the Falcons’ management doesn’t realize that after Vick and Dunn, Griffith and Crumpler (a FB and TE) were the most important skill-position players on this team last year. So basically even if they get a 3rd WR, he is going to be on the field at the expense of either Griffith or Crumpler. So far in his career Ashley Lelie has only proven his inconsistency — in fact you could even say he has been more inconsistent than Duckett. Instead of filling their gaping hole in the D-line with a run-stuffing DT, they get a player they don’t really need. Yeah, Lelie is gonna be a lot of help while we continue giving up 150 rushing yards per game.

By dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 01:03 AM | Link to this

Every day i’m more amazed at how stupid Falcons fans are. Everyone hated Duckett last year, and now you guys love him again? You would hate any move that this team and organization makes, and that’s what makes you some of the worst fans in the NFL. No team loyalty. We traded a backup for a starter ok? Both players would have been gone off of the Falcons roster next year anyways. Why don’t you idiots wait and see how this guy actually looks in our offense before you jump all over these boards? Back to my worst fans in the NFL theory. I’m proud of my team but so ashamed of it’s fans. The Falcons filled a need. Plain and simple. Expect to see a NT signed in the next week as well, and then expect these sorry fans to jump all over the board and talk about how stupid Rich McKay is for filling another need. Sorry Sorry Fans. Shame on you.

By Jason

August 23, 2006 01:15 AM | Link to this

I watched that video MountainJim sent in and noticed three smnall things: 1, No touchdowns 2, No abilitiy to break a tackle 3, He never displayed any blazing speed. Also, he better learn to use both hands when catching a Mike Vick pass or he will stay third string all season before he is cut at the end of the year.

Here is the video again: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fan4k5Zj8

By KJ

August 23, 2006 01:16 AM | Link to this

I think it’s a good move other than the fact that Ashley Lelie is in the last year of his contract. Even though Mora claims the #1 & #2 WR positions are set, Lelie has the talent to at least be at least the #2. The question is, will the Falcons be willing/able to pay to keep him after the end of the season.

By will c.

August 23, 2006 01:40 AM | Link to this

I like the move for the Falcons and Duckett. The Falcons are not impressed with the remaining receivers in camp so its a good decision to bring in a veteran receiver. Its also a good move for Duckett in that he will play immediately with the injury to Clinton Portis. I wonder if the Redskins will resign him at the end of year.

http://www.williamcoit.com

By e.b.

August 23, 2006 01:45 AM | Link to this

I liked Duckett, but he’s not the explosivebrand of RB. He’s more like a fullback with a tad more speed. I wouldn’t worry about him going against us in December. I do like this trade, but we do need to stop the run as well. I think Mora realizes this, and they are looking for defensive solutions.

By e.b.

August 23, 2006 01:46 AM | Link to this

I liked Duckett, but he’s not the explosivebrand of RB. He’s more like a fullback with a tad more speed. I wouldn’t worry about him going against us in December. I do like this trade, but we do need to stop the run as well. I think Mora realizes this, and they are looking for defensive solutions.

By Miles

August 23, 2006 02:04 AM | Link to this

LMAO at the clueless people on this site. Crying over losing a RB who isnt effective in anything but goaline situations in this offense. Terrific trade for the falcons. They acquired a number 2 type receiver who is better than evey WR on our roster not named Roddy White. He has the height and size needed to be effective in our offense (unlike Price and Dez White). Sure, Duckett allowed us to have the cool “DVD” combo but thats all he really offered (average a measly 3.1 YPC in 2005). We need quick, elusive runningbacks in our offense due to the cut blocking system and this will never suit Duckett’s game (and he’s a free agent at the end of the year). Best of luck to him in Washington but Lelie is a tremendous upgrade for the team.

By Miles

August 23, 2006 02:10 AM | Link to this

woohoo!!!!!

Falcons sign DT Grady Jackson!!! Good move that is looooong overdue.

Falcons | Team agrees to terms with G. Jackson Tue, 22 Aug 2006 22:42:54 -0700

D. Orlando Ledbetter, of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, reports the Atlanta Falcons have agreed to terms with free agent DL Grady Jackson (Packers), according to his agent Angelo Wright. The contract is for three years and financial terms were undisclosed. He must still pass a physical and could practice Wednesday, Aug. 23.

By broncobillyindy

August 23, 2006 02:16 AM | Link to this

You are a fine collection of fools if you believe Lelie will add another dimension to the offense of Atlanta. True, he can stretch the field with a post or streak. Unfortunately though, this is all he has ever been able to do. He develops baby arms over the middle; quivers at the sound of foot steps anywhere on the turf, and moans “why me?” repeatedly at bedtime. He is soft on his routes, weak on his blocking, and psychologically inadequate to handle the pressures of being an NFL receiver. This idiot was given every chance to prove himself as a 1 or 2. Instead, He chose to stay home and cry while a 36 year old undrafted OFA, and an ACL rehabilitating one hit wonder of a question mark play catch with the QB’s at Dove Valley in preparation for another successful run. June Jones and Shanahan both gave him excellent opportunities to prove himself. The Broncos thought they had found their pot-o-gold at the end of this Rainbow Warrior. Turns out, it was nothing more than a pot of four years of potential.

A-lie, don’t forget to keep your helmet on. Southern folk prefer the ‘c’ and ‘d’ sizes. Finally, thank God we don’t have to worry anymore about putting the toilet seats down at Mile High…
ALOHA LOSER!

By Hold that Tiger

August 23, 2006 03:01 AM | Link to this

If Lelie couldn’t make it in a well coached offense in Denver what the hell makes anybody here think he’ll be successful in Atlanta.

We play in an extremely physical division. Lelie doesn’t fit that offense and frankly a lot of teams are not using the WCO anymore. Yes, I know it’s our VERSION of it but frankly if you can’t line up and go toe to toe with the other teams you’re not going to win in this division.

Down on the goal line everybody (excepting the QB of course) you’ve got to knock people back. Duckett did that, we’ll miss it on the field. The fancy pants act won’t cut it down there and the aim of the game is to score TD’s not rack up impressive running stats while you’re losing.

By Me

August 23, 2006 04:19 AM | Link to this

So much for the “Falcon Filter”

By not bad

August 23, 2006 05:37 AM | Link to this

I like it. My only question…would we have been better off sending our third to Denver for Lelie then trading Duckett to Wash. for line depth?

By mcc

August 23, 2006 06:01 AM | Link to this

The Falcons will rue the day they traded a disgruntled running back with a good work ethic for a disgruntled WR with a bad work ethic. At least Duckett showed up to practice. Lelie held out because he was behind Rod Smith and Javon Walker, two all-pros. How do you think he’ll respond to being behind the Falcons’ dead fishes at WR? More holdout, that’s how.

By michael

August 23, 2006 06:02 AM | Link to this

T.J.! We’re gonna miss you man! But this was a good trade, but if I was GM I sware I would’ve got rid of that sorry a$$ Brooking. And you sir! would still be apart of this team! But what this trade do is keep defenses honest now. Now teams can’t stack the line of scrimage, and blitz the whole game like Carolina and other did last year! This trade open up the field alot, I can’t wait too see how it effects other teams now! But I say let trade Brooking, and get help at the OL & Safety position, and sign Buckner! And this team would be strong all across the board!

By HAROLD

August 23, 2006 06:06 AM | Link to this

Is it really a good trade??

For the Skins and Broncos yes!! Reason is this. The Broncos release a time bomb by letting Lelie go. With Denver having a new future QB and an extra pick next year, they are setting themselves up nice. With the Skins in a Dogfight division like ours, the extra bruiser back with proven skills will help them tremendously! They play a physical ball control offense, which backs like Duckett thrive in.

For the Falcons, yes we have more speed on the outside now, but look at our divison rival defenses. Unless we’re planning on bringing back to the run-n-shoot aka “chuck and duck” its not going to do us much good to not have a ball control offense when we have to go to Tampa and Carolina. Can we honestly say that having 3 viable WR’S is the end all to our problems? The skins for instance have 3 very good receivers and still saw the need for a big RB, granted Portis’s injury had a lot to do with it without a doubt.

The season still looks good although we have lost a good and proven player. I hope that the change for Lelie will make him want to prove doubters wrong and be a fresh start for him. He now has a QB that will bring the best out of him. In closing, I’ll say the move looks good for all 3 teams, but we didn’t get the better of the deal for Duckett!!

GO FALCS.

By cjr29

August 23, 2006 06:54 AM | Link to this

I like the aquisition of Grady Jackson he can penetrate through the line. Dunn was the better back and has been over the past years. Dunn is a hell of a player for his size at 5 ‘8 190lbs. Dunn fits the scheme more better than duckett and the facts are there he’s been more productive than duckett. Duckett is a good player but at times he could’ve been a little more productive with his size and talent. With the addition of lelie, I think pathon better look for another job.

By Philip

August 23, 2006 07:06 AM | Link to this

Risky move. I would have liked for us to get someone in return who was going to be with the Falcons longer than one year. I would rather have T.J. than Ashley for year year.

By Charles

August 23, 2006 07:10 AM | Link to this

Eziekel you said best, the problem we need DT’S that are big and stop the run. Brenston Buckner or Grady Jackson either one will do. EMERGENCY REQUEST!!!! I wanted TJ to stay but I can live with the move.

By CQ

August 23, 2006 07:35 AM | Link to this

This is a good deal for the Falcons. The receiver corps is packed with speed and tall guys. Its time to send Paython packin.

Now the Falcons need to get Grady Jackson and a safty from waivers.

By Cdaddy

August 23, 2006 07:48 AM | Link to this

Until Mike Vick learns to read NFL defenses (or should I say pass coverages), this is just a waste of time and talent. Frankly, I think the Falcons would be better served trading Vick and starting Shockley.

By Shaun

August 23, 2006 07:51 AM | Link to this

It was a big mistake. Same mistake that they made with Brett Farve. They should have kept Duckett.

By FALCON CREST

August 23, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

And what scheme would that be?? The Falcons are almost one dimensional now. Dunn has been very good, but he has survived and stayed pretty healthy because he had someone to share taking hits. Now you gonna depend on a rook to share the load? Let’s see how long that last! Dunn will be sure to carry the ball 95% this year, which is gonna take its toll on his body. The problem or question of bringing Hall to play on offense sometimes this season is apparently over for now because of signing Lelie.

Now we have 3 fairly good receivers, a triple threat QB, and a scat back! Do defenses have anything to worry about??….not really…because all 3 receivers have not done DIDLEY to warrant such concern. Fineran and Crumpler have been our only bright spot in the receiving corps….period!!

Remember Falcon fans, we have to thrive in December not September. It seems that some have forgotten that it was Duckett running the ball effectivley in the snow and cold in Green Bay ‘03 that the Falcons were able to shock not only the Packers but the world. TJ had our only rushing TD that day and had the most carries…I wonder why?

By JOHN

August 23, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

Atlanta making hard choices to give our team a chance for the playoffs. Mike Vick is the best running back we have. Could #8 take over if needed as QB with Mike as the tailback? Mike could be the best running back that Atlanta or the NFL ever had. I think the trade was a smart one by our GM. Lelie must understand this, “Mr Blanks way or the highway” Go Falcons

By Joe

August 23, 2006 08:03 AM | Link to this

Now the Redskin Fan’s get to see 185 lb cornerbacks tackling Duckett at the line of scrimage. I can’t believe he played in Atlanta this long.

By Bat Guano

August 23, 2006 08:05 AM | Link to this

Fulcons are so far beneath Carolina that a piddly trade like this one is irrelevant. Blank should try to sign Danica Patrick. And try to cultivate a “romance” between her & Ronny Mex.

By Shea

August 23, 2006 08:06 AM | Link to this

AWESOME! TJ was okay, but I never felt that he was a real threat on offense.

By jerry

August 23, 2006 08:08 AM | Link to this

If Duckett did not fit the Falcon’s scheme then why was he their #1 pick? Was he a Dan Reeves or a Jim Mora pick?

By Larry

August 23, 2006 08:14 AM | Link to this

mistake Duckett was the only physical back we have this will hurt on the goal line need big D-lineman now!!

By mountain_jim

August 23, 2006 08:20 AM | Link to this

Jason says: “I watched that video MountainJim sent in and noticed three smnall things: 1, No touchdowns 2, No abilitiy to break a tackle 3, He never displayed any blazing speed. Also, he better learn to use both hands when catching a Mike Vick pass or he will stay third string all season before he is cut at the end of the year.”

To that I say he displayed attributes that no current Falcon receiver has - the ability to adjust to badly thrown balls in flight - the reason for no touchdowns was because every ball thrown to him was badly underthrown, still he adjusted, fought for, and made the catch. He juked and got yards after the catch, He got tremendously open and got separation, which our receivers rarely do. He catches with his hands away from his body, he showed tremendous balance and concentration on the sideline..

I can’t believe you would watch those plays from 2005 and have anything to complain about as far as receiving skills are concerned.

Just what the Falcons needed I say.

By FOOTBALL GODD

August 23, 2006 08:28 AM | Link to this

OK, first of all, The Vick haters step aside. I’m seeing dumb statements on here like “Let Vick play receiver” “Matt Schaub should start” “Duckett was the best back we had” “Shockly is better”.

From these statements I can tell you need to be in the kichen cooking dinner instead of watching NFL football.

Ducket did not fit the Falcons schem. We have a Full back that can get short yards, but we did not have a 3rd down receiver. That trade mkes defending the Falcons very tough. think about it: Crumpler, Dunn, Jenkings, White, and now Lelie. Thats hard very to defend especially when Vick is also a threat to run in passing situations.

The Falcons have the ability to spread the field more allowing for big plays.

The main focus now for the falcons will be to get Grady Jackson in and a back up Safty to relive Maloy.

By paul

August 23, 2006 08:30 AM | Link to this

I liked Duckett and I dont think it really matters who our receivers are. The question is whether Vick can consistently deliver the ball in rhythm to where the play is intended to go. I have extreme doubts about that.
We should have traded Dunn and maked Duckett #1 back.

PS- I heard Duckett will refuse to go to Washington because he doesnt want to give up practicing against our defensive line.

By Glenn

August 23, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

If we didn’t want a wide receiver with baggage (i.e. Randy Moss and TO), why would we trade for one with less talent and in the last year of his contract?

By Bill

August 23, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

In the final analysis, I think this will be seen as a bad trade. Not, because of how Ashley Lelie plays in Atlanta, or the effect he has on the team, but because T.J. Duckett will be a star in Washington where he will get to play every day.

By Boots

August 23, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

Dealing with a malcontent is a risky trade!

By jerry

August 23, 2006 08:33 AM | Link to this

Which duo is most likely to take it to the house? Duckett-Pathon or Dunn/Norwood-Lelie? Which is most likely to be three yards and a cloud of dust? Personally, I like the long ball hitters.

By James Searcy

August 23, 2006 08:37 AM | Link to this

I believe the decision is a good one. My nephew made this prediction a week ago and so it is. Duckett is a big strong running back but the size limits his speed. He’s also be inconsistent in keeping healthy and being motivated. Looks like Atlanta recently acquired a smaller sized, speedier running back that effectively sealed Duckett’s fate in Atlanta. Meantime - just look what we get in return - a speedy wide receiver from Denver Broncos. Hello - when was the last time we remember having a true wide receiver for the Falcons?? This hole has been obvious for recent seasons and a show-stopper in the Falcon’s Super Bowl dreams. Now that these changes have been made, it’s time to see results and hopefully they will be all good.

By Red Fox

August 23, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

Horrible deal. Lelie will be another Peerless Price.

Falcons will struggle mightily inside the 5 yard line this year.

Also, agree with this statement…

“Dealing with a malcontent is a risky trade!”

By mista congeniality

August 23, 2006 08:38 AM | Link to this

Bad comment Bill, bad comment.

Duckett will be a backup in Washington too, because the Redskins have a guy named Clinton who has done pretty well so far. Washington runs quite a few one-back sets just like Atlanta, and just like Atlanta, the passing game is not necessarily vertical. Will he succeed because there won’t be a big learning curve? Yes. But will he succeed from a greater role? Nah.

By w. r. smith

August 23, 2006 08:39 AM | Link to this

get lee suggs as soon as he is available. he is a great back who has been unlucky is his nfl years, but in college he was portis’ equal. check it out if you do not believe me.

By oldschoolfootball

August 23, 2006 08:45 AM | Link to this

Glad to see the Buckett gone. now let’s get some defensive help and get the other softy (K. Brooking) who makes tackles after back carries him 5 yards out of here too.

By modest

August 23, 2006 08:49 AM | Link to this

Tippy-Toe Duckett gone! I have never seen a big man so afraid to run through a hole in my entire life. It was like he never wanted to get hit. Lets face it, we needed another WR. And Norwood is just as good if not better than Duckett. I am happy.

By alan a

August 23, 2006 08:50 AM | Link to this

we did not get enough for Duckett and now we have no proven back up if Dunn gets hurt. bad trade.

By FALCON CREST

August 23, 2006 08:52 AM | Link to this

“Will he succeed because there won’t be a big learning curve? Yes. But will he succeed from a greater role? Nah.”

He will succeed because he will bring a needed depth to the TEAM!! Its not always about individual success. Yes the Skins have CP, but dont you beleive that they are happy that they have a back that can carry the load and give CP a breather w/o a offensive downgrade?? No Duckett wasn’t a game breaker, but he could get you the tough yards when needed. This trade will be determined in DEC during the playoff hunt. December 3rd will be interesting to say the least.

By greg

August 23, 2006 08:53 AM | Link to this

Feels like a Rankin Smith move. Trade a productive running back for a disgruntled receiver

By EricS.

August 23, 2006 08:54 AM | Link to this

What is the point in beefing up the offense when it’s the D that is stinking up the joint against the run. We looked like poop against the Packers. Say what you want about the pre-season, but those guys on the first team D looked horrible. If we are going to trade a back like Duck, then we should have beefed up the D line.

By MIchael

August 23, 2006 09:00 AM | Link to this

Ashley Lelie can’t stop the run either!

By Russ

August 23, 2006 09:01 AM | Link to this

Mark it down………when we are around the goal line and can’t run the ball into the end zone. This was a major blunder!

By Andrew

August 23, 2006 09:05 AM | Link to this

Being a Bucs fan, I applaud the move. This will help us on 9/17.

By Jack

August 23, 2006 09:05 AM | Link to this

Trade for recievers—-trade for running backs trade on ad infinitum , but nothing will work until they trade Vick and fire the coaching staff. Get some coaches who know what to do with the talent on hand

By Jake

August 23, 2006 09:06 AM | Link to this

This is just one of many bonehead moves by the Falcons. Look out for Mora of the same.

By Nikki

August 23, 2006 09:09 AM | Link to this

Andrew, you are clueless. Duckett was performing very poorly towards the last half of last season. He doesn’t really fit the Falcons’ run scheme. Lelie will give up that 3rd WR we need to give the birds a more balanced attack. What good is a #1 run game if you still miss the playoffs?! The run game will be fine.

By SuperBowl 2007

August 23, 2006 09:11 AM | Link to this

Prediction: Vick gets hurt in the 2nd game of the year against TB and Schaub takes over and leads Atlanta to the SB(with Lelie’s help)

By jc from indy

August 23, 2006 09:14 AM | Link to this

Good Job Falcons! Your just like the stupid Hawks. Why on earth would you trade TJ, not a good move. Well it’s been my belief that the Falcons won’t be going anywher with Mike Vick anyway so TJ enjoy your move. Go Colts!

By Kevin Hayes

August 23, 2006 09:15 AM | Link to this

I don’t like the trade. Dunn is on the downslope of a great career and Duckett was the future. I wish TJ well and I will certainly check out the Redskins game to see a healthy diet of Duckett straight up the gut.

Atlanta needs the deep threat and I hope this guy works out.

By Big Bree

August 23, 2006 09:15 AM | Link to this

Okay so now Duckett is gone, Lelie is in (better 3rd receiver than I can think any Falcon exec has mentioned getting ever…correct me if I’m wrong). AND, for all of you who say he’s a time bomb and a problem….remember that his issues were with Denver not Atlanta. I haven’t read anything yet that indicates he doesn’t want to be in the ATL, hence, I’m expecting to see the best out of him!
Oh yeah since I didn’t see where anyone else mentioned it (unless posting it while I was writing this) we now have Grady Jackson signed to a 3 year contract conditional on him passing a physical. It’s getting much better people….think we can start to be a little more optimistic now and stop criticizing every move the execs make!!! GEEZ

By Dave

August 23, 2006 09:19 AM | Link to this

No! This is terrible. First of all we are giving up a guy in Duckett who could easily turn in a 1000+ season consistently for many years to come. And we are getting a guy in Lelie who was dissatisfied in Denver because he was the 3rd receiver. Well guess what he is in Atlanta? A third receiver! Perhaps he can play his way ahead of the others, but with Vicks preference for throwing to those he knows, Lelie is not likely to shine enough to move up to a starting role. Boo hiss….

By ejohnson

August 23, 2006 09:22 AM | Link to this

The ironic thing is if I remember correctly the year they drafted Duckett, Lelie was available. I thought they should have taken him then. Then they might not have wasted so many picks and free agent money trying to get a top receiver.

By FALCON CREST

August 23, 2006 09:27 AM | Link to this

“The ironic thing is if I remember correctly the year they drafted Duckett, Lelie was available.”

You are correct, they came out the same year!

By stuart fraass

August 23, 2006 09:29 AM | Link to this

WARNING: Ashlie Lelie = Talent + Soft

I watched him for three years in Denver, and you got a STEAL if he takes off his skirt.

By Nezman

August 23, 2006 09:30 AM | Link to this

I wish Duckett well but it always seemed that a 175 lb. cornerback could take him down by the shoe strings. Lelie might be more that our 3rd receiver. What have Jenkins and White really showed? Good luck to everyone involved and GO Falcons!!!

By TL

August 23, 2006 09:32 AM | Link to this

good riddance TJ. Don’t need a #3 receiver - Vick only throws the ball to Crumpler. Instead of Lelie, Falcons should have found a playmaker at linebacker to replace Keith “I’ll tackle you after a 5 yard gain” Brooking.

By William P. Hicks

August 23, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

I think it sucks! I like Duckett, I think of him like a Bulldozer. He was almost like William Andrews, plow thru them and boil ‘em over.

Go ahead Falcon Management, trade or sell all your good players. You, I predict, are going to have another losing season.

By Injuredplaya

August 23, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

The crows could trade for Jerry Rice, with Michael Vick at QB, it’s worthless! I hope Mora has the balls to bench Vick when Mike’s passing game sucks!

By Play that funky music whiteboy

August 23, 2006 09:34 AM | Link to this

This is just another sign of how much of an idiot our head coach is and how he shouldn’t be more than a special teams assistant on ANY coaching staff. Here we go again, another “west coast offense” guy trying everything he can to get the personnel to fit his system, instead of tailoring the system to fit the personnel. Jim Mora is an idiot, the Falcons will NEVER reach a Superbowl with him at the helm - EVER. The whole pregame smelling salts routine (are you kidding me?), the whole “I’m not wearing a coat in Chicago in December for a night game to show how tough I am”… it is getting old Mora.

TJ Duckett is going to punish the NFC East - Joe Gibbs + TJ Duckett = NFC East Champs/NFC Champs. You heard it here. Gibbs knows how to utilize a bruising, talented back: see John Riggins.

Mr. Blank, please wake up - Mora is an idiot that will not have a single job offer once you let him go.

By hondo368

August 23, 2006 09:37 AM | Link to this

lelie will be a good addition if schabb was at the helm. we can’t stop the run, vick can’t hit a wide rec. down field accurately. instead of a wr we need grady jackson to help stop the run to free up the linebackers to stop the slants.good luck t.j. good luck falcons i know washington thanks us they are now a complete offensive football team.

By Call me Earl

August 23, 2006 09:38 AM | Link to this

Great Move Rich McKay

Once again, I see why A.Blank hired this guy. He’s a football genius. Now sign Grady Jackson or B.Buckner!!

We need some help on the Defensive Line or all of these moves will be a bust.

By CQ

August 23, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this

Its funny how folks always bringing up Vick when the Falcons defense sucked last year. The main person who makes a ton of money does nothing but jumps on the pile after the play is over. Im talking about Keith Brookin. Thats the most hyped linebacker in the NFL. He should not even be starting because he is slow as heck. You ever woner why the backs out of the backfield catch so many passes on the falcons. Its because Brooking cant keep up with them.

By buff

August 23, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

From espn.com

The Falcons late Tuesday reached agreement in principle with unrestricted free agent defensive tackle Grady Jackson on a three-year contract. Jackson, 33, is scheduled to arrive at the Falcons’ complex on Wednesday for a physical examination. If there are no problems, the giant-sized tackle will sign the deal and immediately add much-needed bulk and a top-shelf run-stuffer to the undersized Atlanta defensive front.

By BirdDawg

August 23, 2006 09:41 AM | Link to this

I love how people are saying that Duckett will punish people.

Umm… have y’all ever watched him play? No big back has ever played smaller, except for maybe Ron Dayne.

I mean, y’all remember all of the third and fourth and shorts last year when he get arm tackled behind the line, right?

The only thing I don’t like about this trade is that is does nothing to help our defense.

And I’m sorry, but our defense is the bigger priority. We could have put Crump in the slot (once he’s healthy) as the third reciever and would have been fine, or more than fine.

But our defense still sucks. It sucks beyond all reason. Grady Jackson sounds like another Lavalais to me.

We needed to address lack of depth on the D-Line. And we didn’t.

By Bert

August 23, 2006 09:47 AM | Link to this

Ithink the trade will benefit the falcons in two way another back in the backfield like Dunn and Griffith during run plays and have more option with the personnel they have nowthey were limited with Duckett ,you couldn”t throw apass ih the flat to me because of his speed.Now without Duckett they have more option to go to on offensefor ex.3wideout set and using Dunn or Griffith in that set

By Keeping it real !!!

August 23, 2006 09:51 AM | Link to this

WE will see how good a job Mckay is doing come January. Did we make the play off and how far we go in the play off. That when you tell if what he is doing is working for this team!

By Phil

August 23, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

Duckett the bulldozer? You have to got to be kidding, my 87 year old grandmother could bring down Duckett. The guy is already falling at the line of scrimmage, just waiting to be touched so he can go ahead and lay down. He is pathetic.

Norwood will make everyone forget about that loser Duckett. Norwood has the ability to take it to the house on every play.

Great trade, we should have taken Lelie over Duckett back in 2002.

By ATLNOLE

August 23, 2006 09:54 AM | Link to this

Its pretty obvious who actually watches NFL and who doesn’t. Spunkypeach, I am coming late to party on this, but you are an idiot. “Dunn is not a good RB?”
2005- 8th leading NFL rusher 1400+ yards(1600+ with receiving), 5.1 per carry average and 11 runs of 20+ yards? Please tell me what is a “good” RB in your opinion.

I can honestly see this trade both ways. Its a gamble to rely on a rookie RB to back up Dunn, but its also possible that they will pick up a exp RB before the preseason ends. Lelie definitely has talent, lets see if he can live up to it. As far as him being the #3? You know that they will put Jenkins in the slot and put Lelie on the outside to stretch the defense in the 3 wide sets. If Jenkins or White don’t play well, you can bet he will be elevated. The real value to getting him is having a experienced WR in the mix. What if White/Jenkins gets hurt, hell we didn’t even have a 3rd WR before. Folks, hate to break it to you, but Duckett was never going to RESIGN with the Flacons. I think he has tons of potential, but does not fit our offensive scheme. Mora did not draft him, Dan Reeves did for his type running game. Its better to get something for him now at a position of need. We just need the defense to step it up now…

By SteveO

August 23, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

What Ashley Lelie have you people been watching?

Here in Denver, he has never lived up to his potential! We keep waiting and waiting for the Lelie that we were promised out of Hawaii. Practices well, but never has been able to do it come game time.

He was tutored under Rod Smith and Eddie MacCaferry, and still has not realized his potential. Last year he was a #2 receiver here just because there was no one else.

And this year he cries because he is not given the #1 spot? I am sorry, but you have to work hard and earn it yourself! If you cannot do that against the 36 year-old Smith or Javon Walker - from the same draft class, then maybe it’s time to look in the mirror.

Enjoy your new under-acheiver Atlanta!

By TurfMan

August 23, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

Man i am going to miss TJ but Blank did what he needed to do. With the speed that this team has we could possibly be “The Greatest Show On Turf!” Good Job Arthur! watch out Carolina!

By Big Bree

August 23, 2006 10:00 AM | Link to this

Okay people wake up and read!! I stated about 50/11 posts ago (45 mins actually)that we have GRADY JACKSON coming on board, so stop complaining about needing D-Line help and find something else to quibble about like all you pathetic fair-weather fans do.

GO FALCONS

By HAROLD

August 23, 2006 10:01 AM | Link to this

Good point hondo368!!

The trade seems to have helped Washington and Denver more than us. Some would argue that we NEEDED a 3rd receiver, but receivers are a dime a dozen in this league. My only problem with the trade is that its a one year deal. Granted TJ probably would have been released next year, I would have kept him as insurance with a rookie RB. So this is what we have on offense now: 3 Receivers who have done nothing thus far except get everyone excited, a Running Back (Vick) who happens to play QB, and a Running Back (Dunn) who is about to run for his life. Hopefully Lelie plans to stay for more than a year and plays like it.

With every team wanting Matt (Schuab)its only a matter of time before we loose him also. I’m sure he is getting frustrated waiting on vick to get hurt or at least pulled!!

I miss Bartkowski and Andrews!! At least we knew what they would give us every Sunday.

By Jeremy

August 23, 2006 10:02 AM | Link to this

i like the move.Even though we are losing a great back up and bruiser.Lelie can help us spread the feild (hopefully better than PP) which will open some more running holes for Vick and Dunn.

By Boots

August 23, 2006 10:05 AM | Link to this

You are correct. Lelie’s beef was with Denver. And, T.O.’s beef was with Philly. I bet Dallas is having second thoughts about their ability to rehabilitate a malcontent!

By Mark

August 23, 2006 10:06 AM | Link to this

I like the deal. Duckett was good depth, but starters are obviously more important. ALSO, WE JUST SIGNED GRADY JACKSON!!!! WOO HOO!!!

By JOE

August 23, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

Good for the Skins. Duckett will flourish in the Joe Gibbs offense. Go REDSKINS!

By falcon crest

August 23, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this

All I know is Lelie better be ready to play in the “Dirty”!! He is in Football country, in a hard @ss divison at that. He will get no be patient with me symphaty here (in ATL)..thats for sure!! He has 16 weeks!!

And the Grady pick up was good!! Hopefully he’ll protect our LB’s and give us a good rush too.

By CQ

August 23, 2006 10:17 AM | Link to this

If Grady Jackson passes this physical the Falcons will have one of the best denfensive lines in football.

Kerny,Abraham,Coleman, and Grady Jackson. Thats a nice D Line that can create serious pressure on a QB. the corners should have a big year because of it.

By Tim

August 23, 2006 10:18 AM | Link to this

I think its great. Now when Mike Vick cant get the ball to Lelie, we will be one step closer to having Shaub as our starting quarterback. Go Falcons!

By jpop379

August 23, 2006 10:18 AM | Link to this

So we got a hold-out disgruntled receiver from Denver who has not taken part in any off-season conditioning program, has played in no pre-season games, he’s being fined eery day he holds out etc… + the Falcons didn’t give him an extention to his contract?

Sounds like a 1 year rental to me… lets see if he works out… blah blah blah…

A straight line flyer receiver with diminshing numbers… So Jim Mora who exactly is our 3 down possesion receiver & pacifier/saftey valve for MV? Jenkins Roddy? Oh yeah Algie… Please

Your despiration/histrionics for a 3rd receiver probably cost you a win against the Skins this year.. I hope TJ don’t bite your arse later this year at least it won’t happen in the Dome…

The Falcons start another season with nmo depth at running back & a pipe dream rookine Jarious Norwood… enjoy your 6-10 season birdheads!

The smoke & Mora era won’t last the year…

By Rob

August 23, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

I really dont like this move because: 1)although Duckett cant get more a few yards and a cloud of artificial dust he did score 8 TDs last year on goalline ofense and converted several 3rd and shorts into 1st downs. He is an effective role player a-la Jerome Bettis. 2)Receivers aren’t going to help the passing game. Unitl Vick can learn to throw more accuaratley, if ever, it doesn’t matter what receiver you have out there. Example: The TD Vick threw vs GB was to a WIDE open TE who had to fall to down to catch the ball and roll into the endzone. Also, the pick Vick threw was so overthrown it wasn’t even close to our guy. Look for more of the same from Vick during the season. Anyone can throw 5 yard short passes. He has no mid-range passing accuracy, so its not the recievers.

We Are a Running Team which is why I dont like the trade.

By BH

August 23, 2006 10:25 AM | Link to this

Maybe the Falcons needs a tough 87 year old grandmother.

They also need a good defensive team. That should be there main priority.

By kellix

August 23, 2006 10:26 AM | Link to this

I think the trade will be alright, if Lelie gets in there and is part of the team, and not like a diva. Losing Duckett may hurt in time, we will probaly get to see him against us when we play the redskins, :(. I like defense getting Grady Jackson, we more or less have the best front four period in the NFL, and Simms, Delhomie and Brees will be cr-app-ing their britches from it.

By bat hunter

August 23, 2006 10:31 AM | Link to this

Good luck TJ! Falcons were never going to let you be the man here. Ignore the haters! True Falcons fans will miss you for your talent, your character, and your heart.

As for Lelie, you better be a number one!

Cuz us ATLiens don’t take to kind to posers…Get your head on str8 and come out to play!!!

By Wink from Lithonia

August 23, 2006 10:33 AM | Link to this

Guys I hear a little complaining about Lelie and he has not been to one of our practices. I was disappointed we did not take him in 2002 draft. Give the guy a break. Why would any athelete,in any sport want to be number 2 or 3 when #1 is available. This is a fresh start for him. Let him come in an earn this bad rap or maybe just maybe he might turn out to be like all our choir boys in Falcons uniform.

I think the coach is the one who is perpetuating the situation by using the term #3 and using words like there will be no leap frogging on the depth chart. if the guy can get open get him the ball.

Can anyone tell me why McKay refuses to get us a nose tackle if the Coach is not going to use the new WR as if he was a number 1, because we just traded away a contributor, if only in the Red Zone. TJ will rip us a new one in the Washington game, right up the middle, if we don’t get a nose tackle. We have a habit of making all running backs look like Hall of Famers. This blog is going to be full of comments regarding how we let TJ get away after that game.

By Tony in Johns Creek

August 23, 2006 10:39 AM | Link to this

I think this is a bit of a gamble. Norwood “is not ready” according to coach Mora. We don’t know for certain if he’s going to be a bonified backup if Dunn, (who’s getting up in age), goes down. I hear that this receiver has somehwat of an attitude problem.

Unless the Falcons really start utilizing Justin Griffith, who has contributed enough for us to know he is valuable, we’re going to possibly be in trouble in the running game if Dunn gets hurt.

TJ will flourish in Washington, like Riggins and Riggs Jr did. Joe Gibbs should be elated. He fits their system.

By SteveO

August 23, 2006 10:45 AM | Link to this

Here’s a good article on what you’re getting- and why it didn’t work out in Denver - http://www.denverpost.com/sports/ci_4223300

By ironfeet01

August 23, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

The bottom line is the we won’t know which team made out in this trade until the end of the season. Falcon’s fans, please stop pressing the panic button! But from my observation, it looks like Mora is trying to help keep Knapp employed another year by trying to beef up the offense through the passing game. If it doesn’t work, Mora’s gone along with his staff. You could possibly see Ken Wisenhunt from the Steelers as your next next head coach. That’s a guy that will be able to utilize Vicks skills effectively. The Grady Jackson move is great , but Brenston Buckner played for our bitter rival, Carolina. I think his knowledge of their strenghts and weaknesses would be benificial to to the Falcons during the season opener? Just a thought…

By GRADY JACKSON IS HERE...

August 23, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this

INCREDIBLE!!!

By K Virden

August 23, 2006 10:57 AM | Link to this

I think TJ will be an excellent fit in Washington, It would have bee nice to see him go to an AFC team instead, this move could come back to bite us down the line if we ever play them in the playoffs. Other than that, Good Luck TJ!

By G-lenn

August 23, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this

I can’t think of anyone who has dropped more passes over the last few years than Ashley Lelie except maybe Donte Stallworth . He has never earned the right to be a number one reciever . I hope he has a decent attitude & just needed a change of scenery from Denver like Eddie Kennison.

By Brian

August 23, 2006 10:58 AM | Link to this

This is a great trade. The Falcons need another receiver a lot more than they need a backup RB who doesn’t fit in their system. Some comments on some of the idiotic things other folks have said:

1) Regarding the fact that TJ has scored a lot of touchdowns: that’s because we give him the ball a lot in touchdown situations. Sure, it’s nice to be able to hand off to a bruising back near the goal line, but does anybody really think we won’t be able to punch it in with Dunn (or score with Vick play-action bootlegs)? I believe that it’s a myth that a big, bruising RB is far superior to a smaller back in goalline situations.

2) Regarding TJ being a star at Washington: Maybe, maybe not. But what was clear is that he was never going to be a star in Atlanta. He just doesn’t fit our system. So we had to give him up to a team that would gain more value out of him than we do because that’s the only way to get quality talent back and improve your team.

3) Regarding giving TJ to a team in the NFC that we play this year: Seriously, that’s your concern? The Redskins? Let’s worry about making the Falcons as good as they can be and let the Redskins worry about the Redskins. They’re not even in our division for pete’s sake.

4) Regarding Lelie having a badditude: This is true. He may end up being worthless for this team. But he also has a lot of upside, certainly far more than Duckett had for the Falcons. And we need a talented WR a lot more than we need a RB who doesn’t fit our system. So if Lelie ends up being a bust, all we lost was a RB who wasn’t contributing much anyway. But if Lelie works out, we have upgraded this team in a BIG way. The downside is pretty low, and the upside is huge. Anybody in business will tell you that’s a risk worth taking.

Frankly, I am shocked at how many people don’t like this trade. What’s not to like?

By Boots

August 23, 2006 11:01 AM | Link to this

Well, this trade has certainly engendered alot of discussion. Who knows. I’ve endured decades of crushed hopes and unrealized expectations. I’ve seen superstars come and go —- and I’ve witness the birth of superstars after they were traded by the Falcons. I joined in with those who anticipated that Vick was the coming messiah. I cheered as Vick displayed a level of athleticism rarely seen on a football field. But sadly, I’ve come to the conclusion that he’ll never take us to the Big Show. He’ll continue to dazzle us with the brilliance of his running game (until he’s carried off on a stretcher) but baffle us with his inability to throw the ball.

By BRENSTON BUCKNER IS ON THE WAY!!!

August 23, 2006 11:01 AM | Link to this

SUPERBOWL!!!!!

By sicem

August 23, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this

This trade will come back to haunt the Falcons, we gave up a class hard working player that fit in well with the team for a cry baby with an attitude like Terrell Owens. As with Owens in every city he has played in and Peerless Price in Atlanta it is proven over and over again that if you are not a team player you disrupt the chemistry and hurt the team. Players who hold out and whine when they dont get thier way are not needed no matter how gifted they are. By the way Mr. Mckay and Mr. Mora what are you going to do with Brian Fenneran when he returns? He has been a solid player and great employee from the start please dont toss him out like yesterdays trash. Any way good luck T.J. I will miss you running over linebackers to get first downs and touchdowns. When you play us December 3rd please take it a little easy on us? never mind I know you wont because you dont take downs off you are a hard nosed team player. OK that said come on in Ashley and prove me wrong!

By Doc Reem aka Help Wanted

August 23, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this

All you naysayers are crazy if you think this deal was not in our Falcons best interest.

First of all TJ was not a good fit for this system and I’m not a huge fan of the system but his skill set does not complement our style.

Secondly he did score in goalline situations but really it’s not like Warrick Dunn couldn’t have gotten alot of the same results.

Thirdly TJ was also in his last contract year just like Lellie and he would have been an unrestricted free agent so most likely he would have left (anyway) to be feature back.

Lastly we get a guy that has good hands, is tall, very fast, and also something no one has mentioned (HE HAS LEAD THE LEAGUE IN YARDS PER CATCH EACH OF THE LAST THREE SEASONS!!!!!) This guy will stretch the feild allowing Alge to do even more damage underneath. I know this makes us an even more finesse team but really did TJ ever really run hard when it counted and scare people? Noooo way. So why are you guys so disappointed with this trade? It strenghtens our weakness. We already run the ball well and wasn’t a result of TJ’s hard nose bruising stlye! Now let’s go get GRADY…

By CQ

August 23, 2006 11:05 AM | Link to this

The people who do not like this trade are the people that no nothing about football.

Why not trade a back up running back that does not fit your system for a glaring need at wide receiver. Not to mention that Duckett was going to be a free agent at the end of the season and the Falcons were not going to be able to pay him anyway.

Duckett is a much better fit for the Redskins and I wish him luck because he finally gets his time to show what he can do.

By Alex

August 23, 2006 11:06 AM | Link to this

Nobody is saying that the Falcons didn’t need a 3rd receiver, someone to take the slot, and be the 3rd down guy. Just don’t think that Ashley will be the right fit for the Falcons…Ricky Proelh was available and granted he maybe not as fast as Ashley but is a hard worker and a character guy who would have been a leader on this Falcons team, considering both Roddy and Michael are very young…and Brian Finneran was the veteran of the group. What kind of leadership will the malcontent Ashley show? I guess wait and see!

By FP

August 23, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

That was the dumbest thing they could have ever done!!!! If they wanted to trade somebodyit should have been one of those no ball catching receivrs they are always paying so much money for!

By FALCONS RULE!!!!

August 23, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

We already reached an agreement with Grady Jackson. TOP TIER run stuffer, STUD!!! It sounds like we might be signing Brenston Buckner very soon, too. AWESOME!!!!

By falcon guy

August 23, 2006 11:08 AM | Link to this

We traded a former 1st round pick who essentially was the #3 RB on the depth chart and who was a free agent at season’s end, for a former 1st round pick who has been the #2 WR for a playoff team who is a free agent at the end of the season. I don’t see how anyone could view this as a bad trade. The Falcons went 8-8 WITH Duckett, and a healthy Finneran leading the team in catches. I believe Jenkins and White will progress this season, but I don’t think this team could survive without another receiving threat. Sure Lelie was disgruntled, but the guy has had a 1,000 yard season and was not thought of very highly in Denver. When has the Falcons had a 1,000 receiver since Terrence Mathis? I think this is a good move. If Lelie doesn’t fit in, he’ll walk after the season, just like Duckett would have. So maybe the Falcons don’t get anything for after this season, but if you’re trying to win a Super Bowl this year, why not roll the dice with Lelie instead of TJ? The Falcons will still lead the league in rushing, and maybe they can improve their passing attack. Good move.

By Pepe

August 23, 2006 11:11 AM | Link to this

I appreciate the highlight real of Lelie. It gave me a good feeling about the potential of the trade. I was not big on Lelie when talks first started. I wanted to keep Duckett and bring Ricky Proehl in on the cheap. However, I’m sure Mckay did his homework and watched more than a highlight tape.

Then I came across highlights of Duckett (link below) with a click away from the original link. It made me feel like we’re going to miss Duckett’s change of pace and feel for the end zone.

I don’t think McKay has given us any reason to question his decisions yet (however, I’m getting a little nervous about the NT situation). I’ll stay excited for now, but I’ll wait to see how Duckett/Lelie produce, and whether we can stop the run when we head to Charlotte. Not to mention, I think Justin Griffith will have his best year yet and, hopefully Jerious Norwood will continue to improve and make a few big plays liked he did against New England (albeit it was not the first team defense). I think the trade has potential, given I don’t see any better offer in the news. Unless the Falcons were going to be able to resign him, I think the trade makes sense.

Also, it ought to be interesting to hear whether Buck and Kincade support the trade today. If I recall Buck ripped Lelie pretty good a week or two ago, and John was against breaking up the number one rushing team in the NFL (the key strength of the team).

Good Luck Duckett: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DvgQDM5433U&mode=related&search=

It’s time for Lelie to push these young receivers and improve the entire unit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-fan4k5Zj8

“Sorry about the length…I’ve been reading.” - Señor Calder

By Doc Reem aka Help Wanted

August 23, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this

All you naysayers are crazy if you think this deal was not in our Falcons best interest.

First of all TJ was not a good fit for this system and I’m not a huge fan of the system but his skill set does not complement our style.

Secondly he did score in goalline situations but really it’s not like Warrick Dunn couldn’t have gotten alot of the same results.

Thirdly TJ was also in his last contract year just like Lellie and he would have been an unrestricted free agent so most likely he would have left (anyway) to be feature back.

Lastly we get a guy that has good hands, is tall, very fast, and also something no one has mentioned (HE HAS LEAD THE LEAGUE IN YARDS PER CATCH EACH OF THE LAST THREE SEASONS!!!!!) This guy will stretch the feild allowing Alge to do even more damage underneath. I know this makes us an even more finesse team but really did TJ ever really run hard when it counted and scare people? Noooo way. So why are you guys so disappointed with this trade? It strenghtens our weakness. We already run the ball well and wasn’t a result of TJ’s hard nose bruising stlye! Now let’s go get GRADY…

By oldtimerfalcon

August 23, 2006 11:23 AM | Link to this

Good luck TJ. Thanks for the memories

By RBL

August 23, 2006 11:25 AM | Link to this

If Mora is going to be so concerned about having a third receiver to the pointof trading a first round pick, then he needs to make sure he’s throwing the ball at least two out of three plays per possesion. Or how about three out of three? That would sure shock the hell out of me and most of our opponents as well. Nahh! Everybody knows their first play is always a run.

By RBL

August 23, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

If Mora is going to be so concerned about having a third receiver to the point of trading a first round pick, then he needs to make sure he’s throwing the ball at least two out of three plays per possesion. Or how about three out of three? That would sure shock the hell out of me and most of our opponents as well. Nahh! Everybody knows their first play is always a run.

By dan

August 23, 2006 11:26 AM | Link to this

I think that with a healthy mike vick able to run for 900+ yards again, and with dunn being the solid, proven back that he is, who needs duckett? I mean, we had the #1 running game in the nfl for two years running! I say let vick and dunn take care of the running and let’s stack that passing game. With this nice trio of jenkins, white, and lelie, we have a good shot at going to miami. But, jeez, let’s improve that d-fence, pleease!

By FALCONS RULE!!!

August 23, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

Our defense will be # 1 in the league this year. What do we need to do on defense? We have a shut down corner, maybe 2. Our glaring safety concern became a positive. We have 2 incredible linebackers. Now with Grady Jackson, our defensive line is the best in the league. If we sign Buckner before the end of the week, that will be icing on the cake.

Of course if everyone stays healthy, that is.

By Boots

August 23, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

Here lies the flattened body of Michael Vick, T’was a good running back But can’t pass a lick!

By FALCONS RULE!!!!

August 23, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

I agree, Vick SUCKS!!!! We don’t need his hype anymore. He definately got us on the map with his electric play, but highlights is all he has been. Never been consistently good. The team is good enough without him and I actually think better. Imagine if we got a good player and a great draft pick for him and let Schaub take over. Might as well now as Vick is going to get killed sooner or later by a streaking linebacker.

By ebineezer

August 23, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

Another whiner who is going to be trouble in the locker room if he does not get the ball “enough”. Soft blocker and will drop a lot of balls. There is a reason he was the #3 receiver and those reasons are not good. Maybe it being a contract year will make him put a little more effort into his playing this year. Duckett was a good player in Atlanta but his absence will not be a big deal.

By dustin

August 23, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

I like the trade, i wish duckett the best! hopefully lelie will be the speed reciever that we need to stretch the field! I just hope he can block like Finneran! Go Falcons!!

By Random

August 23, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

Lelie had a problem with dropped balls and could only catch one pass in the end zone last year despite the fact that Jake Plummer targeted him many times. Duckett is way more valuable to a team than is Lelie and the Falcons should have gotten something extra in this trade.

By Boots

August 23, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

Just took a look at Vick’s career stats. Overall passer rating of 75 which places him 25th in the league. But the irony is he doesn’t seem to be improving in overall performance —- with better stats in 2002 and 2004. Wish him well, but this is his fifth year playing with the big boys. Hope he can step up and show the fans what Mr. Blank saw when he signed the contract.

By ChucktownBird

August 23, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

I think it’s a good trade. As much as I like Vick, the pressure is on him now. He has all the weapons he needs. Hopefully, our offense will shine now.

By Tom

August 23, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

I like TJ Duckett! He’s the power house that plows through those tough defensive lines. The problem with the Atlanta Falcons is their offensive line and defensive line. If the offensive line would do a better job of keeping the opponents away from Vick,and, if the defensive line would do a better job of keeping pressure on the other team’s quarterback, the Falcons will be in the Superbowl!

By Edgar

August 23, 2006 12:27 PM | Link to this

It’s not a cure but it does give more credence down the stretch. Six to eight weeks from now will tell the tail.

By Tom

August 23, 2006 12:29 PM | Link to this

I like TJ Duckett! He’s the power house that plows through those tough defensive lines. The problem with the Atlanta Falcons is their offensive line and defensive line. If the offensive line would do a better job of keeping the opponents away from Vick,and, if the defensive line would do a better job of keeping pressure on the other team’s quarterback, the Falcons will be in the Superbowl!

By Tom

August 23, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

I like TJ Duckett! He’s the power house that plows through those tough defensive lines. The problem with the Atlanta Falcons is their offensive line and defensive line. If the offensive line would do a better job of keeping the opponents away from Vick,and, if the defensive line would do a better job of keeping pressure on the other team’s quarterback, the Falcons will be in the Superbowl!

By d

August 23, 2006 12:32 PM | Link to this

T.J Duckett is a consumate professional and a class act. I wish him well in D.C. As for the other aspects of the trade, I think this is another of the seemingly endless bonehead moves by the three headed MBM monster (Mora,Blank Mccay). Apparently these three with their lack of foresight have forgotten that Jerome Pathon has been in this league a long long time and didn’t get to that point without knowing how to play the receiver position. With Leliem, the Falcons simply have another head case like Peerless Price on their hands. Mora seemed to be judging Pathon’s worth on one game’s performance. Anyway, I think this trade was bad for the Falcons. I think TJ will do very well in D.C. and I thik the Falcons will regret signing Ashley Lelie.

By "D" in Houston

August 23, 2006 12:35 PM | Link to this

Duckett is going to make the Redskins better. He also is going to hurt Portis’s Fantasy stats too(if you care), but I can’t be happier to see the Falcons doing something! Anything, rather than just doing nothing! No wonder Mckay was being considered for the “big boss” position of the NFL. Go falcons!

By atlfalcon

August 23, 2006 12:38 PM | Link to this

I hated to see Duckett traded ‘cause i thought he was the big back we needed in short yardage situations but this was a deal that had to be made. We couldn’t afford to go into the season with only Jenkins and White as our starters. I have been waiting all training camp for Roddy to step up and I’m still waiting. Maybe this will be what he and Jenkins need to push them a lil bit. Time will tell!!!

By Clyde

August 23, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

By JeanE

August 23, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

This was a dumb move made out of desperation which, I predict, we will regret, big time! This “receiver” is a priss who is the 2nd coming of one Peerless Price! Thank God we won’t be stuck with him next yr when Finn will be BACK and ready to roll…I guarantee you this guy won’t block or play special teams…Watch for TJ to have a monster year for the Redskins, I wish him all the best.

By chuck

August 23, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

It’s nice we got Grady,but I haven’t heard that we were also trying to sign Buckner. Who knows more about this?

By ab

August 23, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

Until I see Ashley catching balls in the endzone, I will be apprenhensive. Duckett, we know could power the ball in the endzone.

By Tipp

August 23, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

I’m not feeling it… Duckett has always been there to punch in it when needed.. even in our “slash” style offense we need a big back to carry the heavy load. Also… why trade a guy (TJ) who loved playing for the Falcons for a guy (LL) who was upset at being the #3 guy in Denver only to now be the #3 guy in Atlanta.. The Falcons need positive minded players.. not negative trouble makers!!! Oh… and if we had to make a trade, how about doing something to help out the defense… The running game was fine… it’s the secondary that needs fixing!!

Thanks TJ for hammering those touchdowns.

By bushwacker

August 23, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

I will never forget Duckett’s pathetic effort in the last few game slast year after Dunn went down. NEVER!!!! Good riddance, i am suprised Mora kept him around this long after last years embarrassing display. Good riddance!!

By JB

August 23, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

CONGRATS ON SIGNING THE BIG WWWIIIIDDDDDEEEEE TACKLE WE NEEDED NOW WE CAN STUUFFF THE RUN. RICH MCKAY AND ARTHUR OUR DOING THEIR PART NOW THE COACHES NEED TO FILL IN THE PLAY PLAYING CALLING BIG GRADY JACKSON IN THE MIDDLE SUPER BOWL BABY

By Big A

August 23, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

What’s the use in having more receivers if your quaterback is too stupid to get them the ball. He is the absolute WORST qb in the NFL! How did he make the pro bowl? This isnt steet ball or hood trash ball. Vick should have been traded for anybody! Nobody liked the birds back in the day when they sucked. Now they get a sreet thug at qb and it’s like going to the projects at a game!! Can you say ball hawg!

By FALCONS RULE!!!

August 23, 2006 01:18 PM | Link to this

ESPN is reporting that the Falcons are close to signing Buckner. They were close a while back, but medical test showed a possible heart problem. Since then, he has been cleared and is good to go, so the Falcon’s are back on the boat again.

By Big Bree

August 23, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

from ESPN.com >> A league source said Falcons officials had a long meeting with Lelie to discuss his role, and were satisfied he was willing to accept the No. 3 spot.

By Big Bree

August 23, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

A league source said Falcons officials had a long meeting with Lelie to discuss his role, and were satisfied he was willing to accept the No. 3 spot.

By BLEED RED AND BLACK

August 23, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

I think it’s funny how all the Duckett “jock riders” seem to forget that a man of TJ’s size is supposed to tote the ball like the recently retired “BUS” in Pitts. NOT ONCE did TJ RUN THE BALL WITH AUTHORITY during his tenure here, true he had a couple of big gains here and there but he was not able to do it consistantly. One would tend to think that TJ will fare better in Was. with the BIGGER AND STRONGER O-LINE, but I see TJ on the sideline holding his helmet b/c he is being brought in as insurance not to “take a starting spot”.

AMY AND SPUNKYPEACH…do the true Falcon Fans a favor and SELL YOUR SEASON TICKETS AND GO BUY SOME SEASON TICKETS TO THE ATLANTA BALLET, since the two of you enjoy watching grown men tip-toe maybe you can go together….

FINALLY FOR THOSE “SO-CALLED FANS” that think TJ was so amazing in goaline situations…NEWS FLASH the guy weighs 240+ HE’S SUPPOSED TO PUT IT IN THE END ZONE from two or three yards out REGARDLESS of whether the defense KNOWS he’s getting the ball or not!

I’m out!

By Big A IS A PUNK

August 23, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

Big A you are just a prejudice PUNK!! If you have never been to the HOOD don’t speak on the hood. And when we are in Miami for the Super Bowl stay your Punk A&& at home.

Falcons All The Way Baby!!!!

By tincup

August 23, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

How about this. Have Vick in there on running downs and then have a D.P. come in —- a designated passer come in on third and long.

By Jim

August 23, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

Ahhhh, Good move. now next year your backup Qb schaub can go to a real team and take over since he knows how to throw the ball. oh yeah you got a wide receiver 2 bad the QB is a RB thug who doenst know how to throw the ball. perfect sense. no wonder atlanta is the biggest loser city for sports HA

By CQ

August 23, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing how much hate is geared towards one man. Jim,, you are an idiot.

Why is it that these prejudice people get on this Blog and called Vick a thug when the man has no arrest or any criminal history.

Is it because of the hair, the clothes her wears or the jewlery? If it is then get use to it because its part of the hip hop culture thats not going away and your kids are probably part of that culture.

By john

August 23, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

It takes more than talent to win. It takes chemistry also. This was a mistake on the falcons part. Duckett was a producer. They will always be an “almost” team.

By Dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

Duckett didn’t produce on 3rd and 4th down last year. Even Duckett will tell you that. Dunn gets the team all the way to the 3 yard line, and in comes TJ Duckett to score and easy TD. The stats are skewed and anyone who really watched the games last year knows that Duckett is expendable. He didn’t have the blocking skills to be a starting back, and didn’t fit our scheme. plain and simple. We were going to lose him next year anyways. Good trade, even though we’ll lose Lelie next year too, but we’ll have Finneran back so it won’t matter.

Falcons “fans” are the worst in the league by the way. No team loyalty.

By chi chi

August 23, 2006 03:02 PM | Link to this

We filled two needs in one night awseome i think the bigger impact will be grady jackson he wiil help our run d and iam sure hartwell and brooking are loving it. Sure we lost duckett but we really needed a 3rd reciever who cares about his attitude we only have to deal with him for a year. Vick has no excuses he has all the weapons around him now

By CQ

August 23, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

With these 2 moves the Falcons have no excuses. Vick has no excuses, the defense has no excuses and the coaches should have no excuses.

There are not going to be many defenses better than the Falcons this year, wich should put the Falcons in goof field position for short scoring drives.

By falconss124

August 23, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

Jim likes guys to sit on his face. What a loser

By Monica

August 23, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

This is a perfect example of GA getting great players then giving them away! I cannot understand what is going on with the Falcons. They are STUPID! I still love yall but this is just crazy!

By CQ

August 23, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

Monica, Duckett was not a great player. A great player for his size is somelone like Jerome Bettis, or earl Campbell. Duckett was never great just an average backup back.

By GB55

August 23, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

Trading Duckett = good idea Getting Lelie = bad idea 50 bucks says the guy will start compaining about something in less than a week

thegatorboard.com

By Ed

August 23, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this

Lelie for Duckett, I love it. I think the Falcons are definite contendors in the NFC with or without Duckett. Lelie’s better than or just as good as any WR we have.

By Sophia

August 23, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

RB thug? So now Vick’s a thug Jim? It cracks me up when I see people who would take Schaub over Vick as a starter.

By mark

August 23, 2006 03:50 PM | Link to this

If Dan Reeves had only asked the wizard for a brain Ashley would have spent the last four years sporting a nifty bird logo on his helmet instead of that stupid horsey thing. Dear ashley welcome home sorry it took so long.

By C.Diddy

August 23, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

go falcons!

By James B.

August 23, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this

I feel good

By David

August 23, 2006 04:11 PM | Link to this

I think the Falcons made a huge mistake in trading away Duckett. It would have made more sense the let go of Michael Vick and let Schaub step into the starting lineup as a quarterback. What good does it have to have all these great wideouts and weapons if there is no one who can consistently get the ball to them? Michael Vick wasn’t hurt last year and the Falcons finished with a paltry 8-8 record. I feel that if Schaub was the starting QB last year, the Falcons would have won the Superbowl because the Falcons had better talent than the World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers. Hopefully, the Falcons brass is reading this BLOG now and they will come to their senses and do the right thing; that is to let Mike Vick go so that he can go back to being a thug along with his brother Marcus.

By joel

August 23, 2006 04:20 PM | Link to this

david, vick isn’t going anywhere, hopefully that will sink in some time. Duckett was going to be gone next year any way, no big deal. Its a fair deal, b/c lelie was actually picked right after duckett in the 2002 draft. Actually, i was suprised they didnt pick lelie first. good luck duckett in washington, see ya later. nice to know ya

By rick

August 23, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what game some of you have seen but Duckett is nothing. All Dunn has done is everything asked of him and yet the idiots in the dome would go crazy when Duckett came in. 250 lbs of tip-toeing into the line. See Ya!!!

By KG

August 23, 2006 04:36 PM | Link to this

Look for TJ Duckett to have a break out year in Washington!! (We’ll miss him here in Atlanta)

And to all you Vick haters…watch for the Falcons to have a breakout year!!

David, I guess BLACK automatically equates to THUG…and WHITE (Matt Schaub) equates to BETTER!! (Matt Schaub will get us to the superbowl? Ha!)

By Frank

August 23, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

That Sucks they will miss him on third down and short. Don’t think this is a good deal.

By Dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

David,

You’re a moron. Learn something about the salary cap and what would happen if Vick were to be “let go”. Schaub by the way. 0-2 in the NFL and a 49% completion percentage. That has Super Bowl written all over it. Let me repeat it. You’re a moron.

By mista congeniality

August 23, 2006 04:48 PM | Link to this

Any good ideas on where/who Schaub goes for?

By Dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

David,

When the offense ranks higher than the defense does, that means you don’t get to blame the teams woes on your so called “thug”(never been arrested) Quarterback. Matt Schaub has more of a criminal history than Vick(arrested for brawling in a bar). Who is the thug? Let me repeat. You’re a moron.

By ATLNOLE

August 23, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

Come on people, Duckett is going be a BACKUP at washington. You people seem to forget that there is a guy by the name of Clinton Portis there…. David- Sorry buddy, are you really a football fan??? If you were, you would know that the reason the Falcons were 8-8 is because the defense couldnt get off the field. Statswise the offense was BETTER than 2004.
Sorry you cant get past the fact that Vick is an unconventional QB, make you feel uneasy huh? He IS THE REASON the Falcons are a factor again(with all due respect to A. Blank) I agree that he needs to become more consistent throwing, but come on, Shaub has not won ANY NFL GAMES.

By Florida Evans

August 23, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

I have a few questions for the pathetic and ignorant jock-sniffers who worship at Vick’s throne:

What was your savior’s record in the last three games of the 2005 season?

What do you think of your savior’s admission that he doesn’t always give 100 percent?

Why do you give your savior all of the credit for the team’s wins, but none of the blame for the team’s losses?

By Eric

August 23, 2006 05:06 PM | Link to this

Duckett is sooo slow, I once saw him take a handoff in a Sunday game and not hit the hole till Monday morning!

By edm

August 23, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

I’m an Atlanta transplant in the Denver area.

Don’t expect much from Lelie. I recall many dropped passes last year. very inconsistent. Rod Smith pulled the team at crunch time. Sorry to say that.

By David

August 23, 2006 05:17 PM | Link to this

Good Luck Duck! TJ has really been such a lame duck for us since he’s been drafted. Now that he’s going to Washington, maybe he’ll blend in so well with them, and dance through holes and the o-lines with such authority that they’ll start calling him “Disco Duck”. Good Luck Duck!

By Dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 05:19 PM | Link to this

Florida,

Now let me ask you a few questions.

How many QB’s can you name with a better winning percentage than Vick when they start?

What is the Falcons record when Vick doesn’t start?

How many Pro Bowls has Vick been to?

How many games has Schaub won in the NFL?

Who has a higher completion percentage? Schaub or Vick?

Who has been arrested more times? Schaub or Vick?

Who is responsible for opening up the running lanes that provide the #1 rushing attack in the NFL?

and finally….

Who is starting for the Falcons in game 1 of the 2007 season?!!!!!!!! Go root for another team sucka!!!!

By Porterboy

August 23, 2006 05:28 PM | Link to this

We just gave Joe Gibbs the running back his heart desired and we traded away our season. To all you Warrick Dunn lovers out there you will finally see how truly ineffective he is. Am I the only person who noticed that Warrick the fake’s big run was always after T.J. moved the ball down the field on the previous drive and softened up the defense. This futher lets me know that Jim Mora and our front office are idots we trade part of the leagues best rushing attack for an often injured #3 reciever. A 25 year old running back when we have an old one on our roster coupled with Trung Candidate 2.0 aka Jerious Norwood, but Im going to justify it in my head once again boy I just love being a falcon fan!

By Dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 05:42 PM | Link to this

aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh. Duckett drove us down the field? That’s the funniest thing I’ve read all day. aaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh. I hope you’re joking dude.

By king jersey

August 23, 2006 05:43 PM | Link to this

Not excited at this trade. Sure we had Duckett for probably only 1 more year, but we could of used him. Lelie is at best a reach…hell we had enough receivers with Questionable hands…did we have to get another? Getting Grady Jackson was smart but I can’t help but think we could of used Duckett. Griffith might be an answer in the short yards area, but Lelie could be a whining morale killer who can’t catch in traffic. And one more deep threat won’t give Vick more time to pass.

By porterboy

August 23, 2006 06:05 PM | Link to this

Duckett softened up the defense until the second half of the season when our blocking scheme was cracked and I hope you dont think that third and seven dunn drove us down the field he is why Vick has so much pressure in his face because he is not consistent and I dont remember anyone putting eight in the box to stop warrick but how many teams had eight in the box to stop T.J.?

By big birdy

August 23, 2006 06:12 PM | Link to this

I dont like it Duckett going away BUT I know that he is going to be happy as full time starter for The Redskins ..Good for Him…

Leslie is a piece of not wanted by The Broncos thats why they sent him away, get it? He is a loser!!!!

By Marc

August 23, 2006 06:23 PM | Link to this

EVERYONE WILL SEE HOW MUCH OF A MISTAKE THIS WAS. TJ IS A LOT BETTER THAN MANY GIVE HIM CREDIT FOR. WE HE GOT STEADY OPPORTUNIES IN THE PAST HE SHOWED UP IN A BIG WAY. LAST COUPLE OF YEARS IT WAS PUT HIM TAKE HIM OUT, PUT HIM IN, TAKE HIM OUT,ETC. TJ YOU WILL BE MISSED!!!!! I WILL HAVE TO WATCH YOU IN THE PRO BOWL THE NEXT COUPLE OF YEARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By zippy

August 23, 2006 06:57 PM | Link to this

I think this guy will be the next Peerless Price

By midniterider

August 23, 2006 07:17 PM | Link to this

People will see now what at TJ can on the field as a starter this trade was dumb Dunn cant move the chains he gets his avg per carrie by being stoped in the back field three times then getting one good run

By James

August 23, 2006 07:25 PM | Link to this

Might be another Eddie Kennison, who’s done well after he left Denver. Vertical threat, doesn’t like going over the middle, leaves Denver with an attitude. Crumpler and Jenkins can go over the middle. If he’s just asked to stretch a defense, that’s certainly something he’s proven he can do.

By LDL69

August 23, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this

I just wish that Keith Brooking and Patrick Kearney would have been traded to a great team so that their 100% effort on defense would be appreciated and they could possibly get a much deserved superbowl ring. They are the only reason I even pull for the falcons! The hell with everybody else!!!

By Dirrtybird

August 23, 2006 07:40 PM | Link to this

Porterboy,

8 in the box was to stop whoever was running with the ball. TJ only played on 3rd and short and whenever it was a goal line situation. Do you remember 3rd and 1, and then 4th and 1? Same play, stopped both times. Duckett didn’t play like a power back. He wanted to cut and juke his way by defenders instead of running over them. I like the guy, but he didnt’ produce last year. He also isn’t a good blocker which is why he didn’t play more in the first place. Duckett never drove us down the field. That’s pretty funny.

By GO FALCONS!!!

August 23, 2006 07:41 PM | Link to this

There really are some moronic people here. How is TJ going to be a “star” or a “pro bowler” if he is a 2nd or 3rd string back in Washington? How many 2nd or 3rd string backs make the pro bowl? What a freaking joke. People take the time to type on the blogs, but don’t take the time to do a little research. Of course Lelie is a reach, but at least he’s another FAST warm body that Vick can throw downfield to, if he doesn’t over throw him. As far as Duck’s goal line “expertise” goes, he gets the ball on the 2 yard line, has blockers creating holes and he shoves his fat 260 lb a* into the endzone. We can find another overweight fat a* to do that for much cheaper than what we would have had to pay him next year. He is/was a vulture if I had ever seen one. He gets to take all the credit for all the work Warrick did. Now it’s Warrick’s turn to shine as he deserves it.

By tincup

August 23, 2006 07:56 PM | Link to this

See Lelie run. See Lelie scoot. See Vick pass. Oh, POOT!

By falconclaws1221

August 23, 2006 07:58 PM | Link to this

ashley lelie——-look at 2002 draft—-he is willing to thank god and listen to coaches and play ————————compare———-with T.O. that wants to be a coach and god at same time.

By Jim

August 23, 2006 08:07 PM | Link to this

I watched every game Lelie played in Hawaii and Denver.I think it is a bad move.He was in a perfect stuation in Denver and couldn’t transpant the 1 and 2 receivers.

By Jim

August 23, 2006 08:09 PM | Link to this

Bad Move ,he couldn’t get it done in Denver

By R.E.H.

August 23, 2006 08:50 PM | Link to this

I always felt Ducket was an underachiever, he was never really willing to keep his weight in check. Some players like Jerome Bettis lose no speed at a large size, but this guy is just slow for a multi-millionaire running back. If he could make a good run once a game he probably felt secure, now he will go North and make us all look like idiots. Don’t forget this is a contract year

By Cherub

August 23, 2006 10:43 PM | Link to this

Okay. Maybe I’m a little slow… but…uh, TJ will still be a backup in Washington because once Portis returns TJ’s toast, Lelie will still be a disgruntled bench warmer taking up roster space in Atlanta because Mora won’t start him over White and Jenkins, but Denver gets rid of a whiney prima-donna (as most WRs are) and gains a draft pick. So who actually benefits from this deal besides Denver? Now Atlanta’s shallow at the RB position. TJ may not be the best RB, but he’s a vet who knows the offense. Warrick’s in great shape (I also think he’s a stand up guy too) but he can’t play forever. Jerious is fast, but he may not be ready. He may have ripped it in college, but this aint college. This is the NFL. Heck, TJ was the man at Mich.State and look what’s happening to him. And on a side note, you can’t compare Warrick to TJ because they’re run styles are different. Apples and Oranges. Dunn is quicker and better at cutting. TJ’s a downhill kinda guy. He’s not going to have the stats of a Dunn type because he doesn’t get as many carries/opportunities, and even if he did, he’s not used for long yards. He’s mainly used for goal line/3rd down situations, then it’s back to the bench. He may have had a few games where he’s had negative yardage, but what RB hasn’t? Atlanta’s O-line can’t hold water at times, which makes TJ’s style of running fairly difficult. Because of Dunn’s size, he has the advantage of rolling to the outside or slipping through seams that TJ would have to burst open. But TJ can’t make forward progress if he’s being bumrushed before he can even get a good grip on the ball. They try running Dunn up the middle and what happened? He fumbled. All I’m saying is, they’re not perfect. They win some, they lose some. They both have had more good games than bad. And while you guys are reviewing film from last season to see how “terrible” Duckett is, don’t forget to count those TDs, the only numbers that really matter. Here’s a little Food for thought: Dunn has 39 TDs in 8 or 9 yrs, while Duckett has 31 TDs in just 4. Cut TJ some slack, he aint all that bad ;-)Okay moving on, Atlanta now also has yet another egotistical “useless” receiver. Not in the sense that Lelie’s no good, but the Falcons are NOT a passing team. We don’t beat teams in the air, we beat them on the ground and on defense (well we used to, lol) If it aint broke, don’t “fix” it. Not to discredit Vick, but he’s not being paid to be a QB, he’s paid to be an athelete. Those few games where he excelled in the air, we lost. Why not just stick to what we’re good at? Now, of course this is just my humble opinion. I mean, what do I know? Rich McKay and Jim Mora are professionals and I’m sure they know what they’re doing. They have the team’s best interest in mind and although I hate to see Duckett go, trades are a part of the business. I wish him the best in Washington and I gotta give him props for being very poised and classy about this whole situation. Hopefully Norwood will step up/do well and Ashley makes and impact here. Hey, who knows? Maybe this move will work out in everyone’s favor… Go Falcons!… and Redskins… ;-)

By robert pace

August 23, 2006 11:28 PM | Link to this

great trade it looks like it took mora to fix dan reeces last draft screw up by getting the wideout we should have had to begin with. i think if lelie has a couple of weeks to work into the offense he will become the “REAL” deep threat the falcons have been looking since micheal haynes left here!!!!!

By Cherub

August 24, 2006 12:56 AM | Link to this

Okay, I thought I’d give your eyes a rest because I know the previous post was looong. But there are a few more things I wanted to touch on: -@ Big A, perhaps you should learn how to spell “quarterback” and “street” before you disrespect ours by questioning his level of intelligence and upbringing… -@ Big A and Jim, this discussion is about our opinions on the trade. The questioning of talent is expected, but attacking someone’s character isn’t necessary. Whether or not Vick’s a “thug” has no reflection on what he’s capable of on the turf… -@ Go Falcons, TJ’s not taking credit for anything or from anyone by getting TDs. He’s simply doing what he’s asked to do by the coaching staff. If it’s like that, I could flip your comment and say that Dunn’s eating up all the yards and hogging all the carries. But he’s not. He’s doing what he’s been called upon to do. When sharing the backfield, one cannot have all the glory. That’s why it’s called “sharing.” Dunn and TJ are role players and they do their jobs well. Warrick Dunn couldn’t possibly shine any brighter. He’s the premier RB of the Atlanta Falcons. He’s a great athlete, with an impressive stat sheet, and has honorable accolades on and off the field. You’d probably need shades and an umbrella to look at this guy! What more do you want?!?! -@ Go Falcons and others who commented on TJ’s weight/shape, Maybe you all haven’t seen his physique the last few years, but I have. And let me tell you the brother is blessed and not even close to being a porker. Just because he’s 240+ (I believe his stats have him at 254) doesn’t mean he’s fat, but I will say he appears to be in the best shape he’s ever been in this year…
-@ Eric, I hate to admit it but your post about TJ taking a hand off on Sunday and not hitting the whole ‘til Monday was hilarious! I actually laughed outloud…

By Big A

August 24, 2006 06:24 AM | Link to this

So I’m a punk? At least I post my name. And no i’ve never been to the hood. Why would I take my white a* there? See it on the news every night. They all wearing that number 7. CQ my kids WILL NOT be a part of that hip-hop culture. Hip-Hop has RUINED the NFL. Thanks David for saying that about Schaub. He is proven he can carry the offense. Vick should be a receiver but then we would complain because he ran the wrong route or just dropped the ball.

By Jay

August 24, 2006 07:33 AM | Link to this

This is not a good trade. The Falcons have led the NFL in rushing the last 2 years. You need a big RB to get those tough 3rd and short yards and around the goaline. Lelie is a decent receiver but he was the 3rd receiver at Denver. If you can’t run the ball effectively then the passing game won’t be effective anyway. The Falcons have some holes to fix but taking away from the running game was not the answer. Norwood is good but unproven and not as big.

By uncle in michigan

August 24, 2006 08:27 AM | Link to this

TJ WAS A HIGHSCHOOL ALL-AMERICAN LINEBACKER, QB, WHO PASSED FOR OVER 1,000 YDS AND RUSHED FOR OVER 1,000. HE WAS A MEMBER OF THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SPRINT MEDLEY RELAY TEAM. HIS STATS AT MSU ARE ON RECORD. HIS PERFORMANCES IN ATLANTA IN NO WAY REFLECTS HIS ABILITIES. WATCH HIM NOW! HE IS BONA FIDE. A GREAT DEAL FOR EVERYONE. IN THE YEARS HE WAS IN ATL, HE HAD NOTHING BUT RESPECT FOR HIS TEAMATES, ESPECIALLY VICK AND DUNN.I’LL BET THEY DID NOT WANT TO SEE HIM GO.

By Waldo

August 24, 2006 10:15 AM | Link to this

This is great…I think we should start every game’s first series lining up Vick (fastest QB), Norwood (fastest RB), D Hall (fastest of all), Rossum (really fast) and Lelie (super fast) and run triple reverses out of the no-huddle. We may not make a first down, but I can guarantee some gassed, hamstring pulling D-lineman on the other side.

Margaret Mitchell had it right in 1936. Ashley is the good guy!

By BUSTER CHERRY

August 24, 2006 10:35 AM | Link to this

Who’s the genius that said —in essence— Duckett was/is better than Dunn? What games have you been watching?!

Duckett had his moments, but he had his hours of tip-toeing to the line and losing yardage…at least Dunn HIT the hole HARD and tried…

It’s a divided camp in here..some say the trade was diamonds, some say rust…I think Grady jackson was a more pertinent acquisition, but if Lelie WAS a legit down-field target and Vick scrambles at will, it might just all work out…

By Hasavior

August 24, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

Big A, That was not kewl what you said about the Hip Hop culture ruining the NFL. IF your sons go and watch games, they are probably already hip hop seasoned. Covering their eyes and ears to hip hop ostracizes their be benefit of the most publicized sports played in the US. The numbered jerseys you and i purchase are marketed under hip hop busines principles and culture, black and white players at that. So i would be kewl about what you hate, dislike or repel from, beacuse the hip culture pronounces our exisitance in our homes, our comprehension, our sport inclination, and out very own lively-hood. It is all around us and will not evaportate due to your frustration based on your limited transitional prowess.

Be kewl Big A. Hit me up! We can rap some more about it.

By Hasavior

August 24, 2006 02:47 PM | Link to this

Since i got that off my chest. I can do what i came here to do.

I like the trade, i think all teams benefited from the transaction. They all got 1st round draft pick products in players and future picks. I hate that we lost that punch you in the face type of football with TJ, but we inherited finesse with Lelie as far as the pass and run. He will be good for Roddy White. He’s going to be nice! He has disciplined running routes and large hands to catch the ball. Lelie will develop his catch and run abilities.

I am with everyone else about Norwood, kind of skeptical about what he can do week in and week out. If he can have a rookie season like cadillac and LJ, then its different. He has a completely different running style of the two. I see a lot of pass screens and flats for him. Majority of his yards will not come from scrimmage.

Dont’ forget we got Crumpler that will make the whole chemistry on offence work!

By Jimmy

August 24, 2006 06:01 PM | Link to this

Big A, you said “at least I post my name.” So is BigA your birth name? It probably is since it probably stands for big A-hole. It’s racists like you who give every white guy a bad name, especially here in the South. I love how all of you losers talk about how such a “thug” Mike Vick is yet when someone says that Schaub has been arrested more times than Vick, you haters have no rebut. Classic.

Anyway. Now that i’ve defended Vick, time to tear him down. He does have a great winning % as a starter, but he’s going to have to improve his completion % or trading for Ashley will mean nothing. If the O line doesnt block Vick wont even have time to hit him deep.

By Jimmy

August 24, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this

Big A, you said “at least I post my name.” So is BigA your birth name? It probably is since it probably stands for big A-hole. It’s racists like you who give every white guy a bad name, especially here in the South. I love how all of you losers talk about how such a “thug” Mike Vick is yet when someone says that Schaub has been arrested more times than Vick, you haters have no rebut. Classic.

Anyway. Now that i’ve defended Vick, time to tear him down. He does have a great winning % as a starter, but he’s going to have to improve his completion % or trading for Ashley will mean nothing. If the O line doesnt block Vick wont even have time to hit him deep.

By Jimmy

August 24, 2006 06:02 PM | Link to this

Big A, you said “at least I post my name.” So is BigA your birth name? It probably is since it probably stands for big A-hole. It’s racists like you who give every white guy a bad name, especially here in the South. I love how all of you losers talk about how such a “thug” Mike Vick is yet when someone says that Schaub has been arrested more times than Vick, you haters have no rebut. Classic.

Anyway. Now that i’ve defended Vick, time to tear him down. He does have a great winning % as a starter, but he’s going to have to improve his completion % or trading for Ashley will mean nothing. If the O line doesnt block Vick wont even have time to hit him deep.

By Straight$$$$Homie

August 24, 2006 08:28 PM | Link to this

Ladies & Gentlemen, Please keep your to yourself. Whether you disguise it or not, it’s not welcome here. I find it very peculiar that you have no retort regarding the thuggery of the backup QB. I will relish visiting the blog the day of his exit so you’ll have to find something else to whine about. Let’s all welcome Lelie, despite what you’ve heard, he’s a good “character” guy. Kynan Forney was a teammate in college and raves about him. So unless you have 1st hand knowledge of anything different, leave it alone. He appears to be a man of his convictions. It cost him over $1.2 million do get here. Obviously the situation for him in Denver was that bad. I look forward to watching him try to make Denver’s decision look bad. That can only mean good things for the Falcons. Give him a shot.

By Cherub

August 25, 2006 02:10 PM | Link to this

You know, the more I read about the trade and listen to the comments of the involved parties, I’m a bit more at ease with it. I still don’t like it, but I can see the reasoning behind it and it makes sense. I realize now that it’s actually the comments made by the fans that bother me moreso than the actual transaction. Clearly I’m a Duckett fan ;-) so I guess I took it kinda personal when I read all the negative posts about him here (and elsewhere)and felt compelled to respond. I know everybody’s not gonna like TJ. There are those who think he sucks and that’s fine. But don’t act like he didn’t contribute at all to the Falcon’s offense. You don’t have to bash one athlete because you prefer another. Y’all don’t see me on here hatin’ on Warrick Dunn, LOL…. But I will say that according to a few articles that I’ve read, the RB camp in Washington isn’t exactly happy with the new addition. They seem to be quite offended by it, which is understandable. But hopefully that’s just media hype and they won’t take the frustration towards their staff’s decision out on my TJ ;-)

By Marco Aguabella

August 26, 2006 08:23 PM | Link to this

You never give up speed & power (45) if you want a Superbowl Ring. Huge Mistake…

ATL…